Summer Solstice Past

The brown maple leaves crunch under the feet
As a dry wind rushes out of the azure sky
Heat that sets the world into slow motion
Sucks the very heart out, evaporating the will
Not so long ago the days were lengthening
Pregnant spring evenings growing with promise
Then the day of appointed turning came
Expectation and growth over in moments
Golden hours full of hope now fade away
The sun began his weary march south
Once more to abandon the northern reaches
Forsaking budding harvests just blooming
The world seems in sharp relief again
Like the early dying autumn days
Clinging to memories of what might have been
As they yield up their fruit in sacrifice
The light both welcome and harsh
Tells of dark days yet to come
This ache of seasons past and present
The life undone a glimpse of heaven
The soft kiss of farewell yet tinged with hope
Sings in the shortening day's embers
Living the aching now in light of forever
Heartbreaking footsteps into tomorrow