TREES IN WINTER

Stripped of the elaborate trappings
of spring, summer and fall,
they stand, nudity exposed, vulnerable
to the harshness of weather’s whims.

The pervasive dull grey-brown of forested
hillsides is partially relieved
by the occasional cedar, pine and hemlock
and the frost-white sycamores.

See how they lean against each other
for support during these cold, hard days—
like human beings who may savor their
solitary walks through lush, green trails,

but now long for someone to sit beside them at
hearthside and share dreams of spring.

Elaine Parker Akin






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