Autograph

I touch the brittleness
Of leaves, the dry, withered truth
Undisguised abuse,
Parched honesty, bearing sun's
Autograph, heat's signature.

I wonder if each will stay until autumn winds come to
carry them into their next journey... or if some will
acquiesce, simply let go of nature's tether, allowing
He who creates all things to make His decision.  Perhaps
their time here is done.  Their purpose and
reason for being is no longer of their choosing
but of nature's necessity.  How sad to see them go,
no matter the circumstance, because a leaf born is a beautiful thing... just as is a dying leaf who has served its Master well.