Winter Is Just Ahead

The days are glorious this time of year
As yellows, oranges, and reds appear.
I love the brilliant colors all around,
But soon the leaves will fall upon the ground.

This time of year is beautiful, yet sad,
As I recall the many joys I've had.
The beauty of Spring and Summer is past,
Seems that Winter is just ahead at last.

When I think about the seasons of my life,
Knowing Winter’s ahead cuts like a knife.
That knowledge causes me to softly moan,
“How can the seasons have so quickly gone?”

Yes, I know it must be late Fall for me,
And no more Spring and Summer will I see.
All the child rearing is over and done,
As is my childhood, which was filled with fun.

But I choose to savor these fleeting days of Fall;
They have the potential to be the best of all.
Although the "Winter" of my life is just ahead,
Even in that season by God’s hand I'll be led.

Johnnie Ann Gaskill
November 7, 1999