Autumn Leaves

First frost awakes a nesting urge
To cast aside the summer’s leisure,
Lay in storage all life’s pleasure
Readying for winter’s dirge

With mindset fixed so foolish, firm
I miss the fiery hands that tease
My mind, so resolute, to ease
And memory store, against the term

When winter’s chill tempts to forget
That there exists but ice and gray
Oh, to recall that crisp bouquet!
Instead, awaiting spring’s coquette.

November comes and spirit grieves
For opportunity expired
To warm my soul by tree-bough fire
Recalling autumn leaves.