The box arrives
with a friend
inside
that I’m eager
to greet
and with
tearing paper
and keys
splitting tape
bright orange
is revealed
and he’s bought
into the light
and welcomed
home
For a moment
the world
exhales
and the tension
of summer heat
gone on
too long
is released
to wash the hills
in hues
of golden glow
as leaves
begin to fall
A smile radiant
in a world
of gray
as raindrops fall
and drip
from the tips
of long strands
beading
upon skin
and yet all
that can be heard
is joy and laughter
So many
nooks and crannies
beneath leaves
and between
swaying stalks
where a heavy head
can settle
for just
a little while
and eyes close
for just a bit
of bathing in
Autumn sunlight