Between Autumn’s soft kiss
and the shortest night
we fall into celebration.

The pace of nature
draws us back in
to the warm circle of her embrace.

Between leaves turning
in their golden, slow dance
we find a new rhythm.

We prepare for winter’s
pale remonstrations
and ready ourselves for long nights.

And the starts look on
impassive and still
while earth’s children set lights
against the darkness. ~ Caroline A. Slee