Leaf

Rays of light find their way to my face
through apertures between the branches.
I shield my eyes against the brightness
and let the sunlight warm my soul.

I watch a leaf above as he plays in the wind,
like a dry sock still pinned to a clothes line.
He dances to the music of Autumn,
like a geranium at first glimpse of the morning sun.

His flaky skin is painted 
shades of red, yellow, and green;
each color representing memories
of a life long lived.

A light wind blows,
pushing the leaf, testing his strength.
He strains to stay attached,
but knowing there’s no chance,

submissive to the will of nature,
he gives in, and breaks free.
The breeze carries him like a feather
gently guiding him in his flight.

Gravity calls at him, luring him down
to settle peacefully onto the sidewalk, 
only to be crunched under the shoes 
of a careless little boy.