Aspens

Something grew like I never expected.
It began in early spring
then flourished and spread—
drinking in warm summer rains
until lights gently changed
into serene autumn airs.

Cancers relentlessly slurp up
every vibrant color of our lives
into their steely urns of greyish fear.
Lapping another day into night.
My family has fought this curse
daily—mentally and physically.

But in its malignant mires of muck
I planted one precious—minuscule seed.
And it grew into a glorious aspen
with roots cloning a myriad more—
detonating breath-taking ambers
that echo against every forest chill.

Beside one kind—twisting stream
bathing in their enchanting hue—
I entered the narrow opening
of a large—unexplored wood.
And upon that dim earthen path
I discovered—a natural empathy.

To give myself—to all—liberally.
Without judgment or recompense.
Like a tree sheltering someone’s hope
I will attempt to paint autumn’s beauty
around every person’s unique battle.
My seed of faith can help grow their faith.

And as I listen to God’s quaking grove—
I humbly whisper into His eager ear:
Within my greatest weakness—
You helped me find my greatest strength!