The darkest weeks ascend toward us
The circles of wind-swept dead leaves 
approach and scatter as I walk

I tread lightly and look to the sky
The shimmering light of morning sun 
dazzled and greeted me

My curious heart reached out 
and leaped to meet the current 
of light and warmth above

It is a welcome reprieve

The dazzling sunsets will tuck me in 
to a play of color and a gift 
from the painter in the sky

whose hues and shades and strokes of 
pinks, oranges and purple 
stir me to a relaxed lullaby 

of warm tea, a blanket and a book
We all need to rest and gather 
during these darkest weeks

It is a welcome reprieve