Autumn years, red-amber hued
Slow passing hours, quiet thought
Gentle emotions, guilt imbued
Of things achieved, but others aught
Autumn years, red-amber hued
Slow passing hours, quiet thought
Gentle emotions, guilt imbued
Of things achieved, but others aught

Alone, I marshal my thoughts, without hindrance or distraction
Singly, I right the world’s wrongs, bringing order to chaos
Selfishly, I revel in the lack of contradiction
Separately, I pine for company
Together, I need to fit in.
What?
Oh, it’s you, you’re back.
When did you go, it doesn’t seem long?
How long are you staying this time?
OK, I guess it’s not much of a welcome but…….
I know no-one else is complaining, but I’m not them.
They don’t have to put up with your moods.
Wouldn’t you rather be somewhere else?
Why do you always have to show up in the middle of the night?
I need to sleep, but you keep interrupting.
Yes, I’ve already taken a tablet.
Never mind, you just don’t understand; it’s all about you.
If you’re staying, I’m going to turn over and try to ignore you.
What?
Unremarkably, the once still air begins to shift
Unnoticed, a zephyr wafts and eddies at your feet
Unaware, the leaves begin to dance in the breeze, grasses swirl, clouds scud
Unconcerned, draughts probe gently at loose clothing
Unhurried, gusts find purpose pushing against your weight
Unworried, you shield your eyes from wind- borne dust
Unthinking, you look down, leaning into the strengthening blusters
Unsighted, white horses race squall-tossed waves at sea
Uneasily, you brace your feet and set your chin to the storm
Unstable, branches break, boughs bend, roof tiles rattle
Unheard, distant winds circle faster, angrier, roaring, rumbling
Unbalanced, staggering, losing footing, hands clasp for purchase
Uncertain, heart pounding, succour is sought, prayers offered
Unknowing, whether the hurricane will pass, and you will be spared.
Nine months gone, labour begun
Pain and panting through gritted teeth
Pushing, urging, willing, wanting
Baby from its muscled sheath
A boy, a girl, it doesn’t matter
But let it be healthy, ready for life
Bear down now, it’s nearly here
Comforting words, from the midwife
One more push, I can see the head
Arms and shoulders make their way through
Baby’s out, crying for mummy
Wait just a second, we’ll pass him to you
A magical moment, as mum takes the child
Wrapped in a blanket, content as can be
Mother and son begin a new journey
Held to the breast, lovingly
Westward crawling, sneaking
Stealing distant stars and galaxies
Summoning birds from their roosts
Commanded to herald the dawn
Half heard on slow shifting air
The sound near real,
but dimming against the growing chorus
And stirring clatter of movement
Night sighs and succumbs
Pulling dreams and fears
Under its dark cloak
Harboured against the bold tide of day.
Come birds, stop by and have a bite
Fill you bellies, whilst there is light
Winter’s cold might chill tonight
But seeing you tomorrow is our delight.