Seasons

In winter it wished, and shook--
Skeletal arms outstretched--
Longing for springtime clothing
And summer loads
And autumn fruit
To come again.

In springtime it blossomed, and rejoiced--
Regal, snowy splendor--
Scenting the breeze
And brightening our eyes
With the smell and sight
Of promise.

In summer it bowed, and sighed--
Patient, stoic submission--
Nourishing its fruit
And sacrificing its beauty
Despite the heaviness and aches
In its branches.

In autumn it released its load, and exulted--
Straightening itself again--
The work completed
The fruit ripened and harvested
Relief and rest
At last.

In winter it wished again.