Autumn's Invitation

​The trees stand tall.
Some are not afraid to shed 
the leaves that no longer
serve a meaningful purpose-
though there may be red anger,
orange caution, yellow cowardice,
brown defeat before the fall.
 
These core beliefs were not
meant to be carried forever.
 
Sometimes it’s worthwhile 
to risk exposure, risk change, 
patiently waiting for the next season,
nourished by supportive roots 
of a neighboring network 
who understand, a weather system
that welcomes change as the most 
natural thing without villainizing.
 
Stand tall then, like wise woman tree.
Sense how the new skin might serve you.