In these darkening days,

the trees are ablaze with

gold and red foliage.

And in these darkening days,

a Scrub Jay, clad in

brilliant azure plumage,

perches on the drain gutter.

And in these darkening days,

a Hunter’s Moon of gold

dances above the quiet seas.

In these darkening days,

people still smile and 

share embraces because . . .

In these darkening days,

hope still exists.