spring leaves

the saplings in the yard are in first leaf

their spring has now begun but it is late

maples they are and ruddy in relief

 

we ask the world for hope and no mischief

to strike us as we come out through the gate

the saplings in the yard are in first leaf

 

the pleasant season but we know it's brief

yet we are forced each year to a long wait

maples they are and ruddy in relief

 

time strikes us now as a harsh nasty thief

we look in pain at every passing date

the saplings in the yard are in first leaf

 

but life's revival brings no great relief

we're in the season of pain and debate

maples they are and ruddy in relief

 

all they can do now is recall hard grief

not reconcile us to eventual fate

the saplings in the yard are in first leaf

maples they are and ruddy in relief