The Nip of Winter
Winter colors
are often drab
with heavy skies
that weigh upon
the world
and yet the nip
of crisp air
as snow falls
tingles
within the senses
lightening
the world
into something
beautiful and bright
Gideon’s Challenge
Gideon’s Challenge
Overburdened
Weighted layers
drag down branches
to direct
usually spry tips
to point toward
the ground
as evergreen fronds
droop heavily
a little further
with every snowflake
that settles
to rest upon them
like a blanket
that becomes
ever heavier
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Frozen Hike
Ice crystal flocking
on sharp needle tips
delicately dusted
by winter’s kiss
each bit of frost
a reminder
of winter’s cold
encouraging
dressing warm
to avoid frozen toes.
Move along the path
and enjoy the day
but stay safe and warm
so you don’t have
to turn back half way
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Storytellers
Tender
and weepy
and yet we play on
and with each word
and every step
in the story
tears fall
and yet
it is not pain
but release
that has them trailing
down my skin
to drop
from my chin
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Approach
They come
marching
in a line
stretched long
although made
of fluff
bringing a bite
in the air
with them
as they move
as one
towards land
promising the need
for warm mittens
and ear flaps
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Saying Goodbye
Sweet moments
weigh heavy
in tufts
of memory
as the soul aches
for losses
and cold winter
creeps in
to the heart of men
as the sadness
of loss
swallows
us
whole
Twisting the Leaf 