The tree stretches like a snowflake,
a white quilt whispering winter along
evergreen branches, lulling day
to sleep while cold quiet announces
the end of another year.

The tree earns another ring, thankful
for moderation in all things living
and dead. Moments of profound insight
from regular cycles leave a peaceful chill
in the air, holding me close, shivering
in the still afternoon sun. 

In the end we still look to what comes
next, hushed faces in the setting sun
bracing against the cold, aware
somehow the light will return.

Phillip Knight Scott | © 2019

Written for several prompts:

• Sue Vincent’s Thursday photo prompt: Light #writephoto
• Go Dog Go Cafe Tuesday Writing Prompt Challenge : “thanksgiving”
• VJ’s Weekly Challenge #74 : “moderation”