Seasonal changes are subtle in southern California, but they do exist. Cooler evenings have finally arrived–there was even a bit of rain this morning. The most reliable sign that summer/fall is transitioning to fall/winter is the growing number of liquid amber leaves falling onto the patio. Fallen leaves signal changes to come as we close out one year and anticipate the next. Gandhi challenged us to “be the change we want to see in the world.” The leaves remind me there is much work to be done–personally and collectively–to create a better world for everyone.
Leaves
They lie silently
Edges turned upward
Like ballerinas waiting
To be lifted back up
Tawny, amber, ruddy chorus
Rusty with age
Brittleness belies their former supple, verdant hue
Once moving in time to windy beats
They will move again today
Raked from slumber, beautiful autumn debris
Clearing the stage
For new, gracefully falling dancers
Cathy Standiford writes “activist poetry,” essays on social justice and issues affecting women and girls, and the occasional song. Currently she is working on a historical novel inspired by her grandmother, who was a refugee from the Armenian genocide.
A retired city manager and local government consultant, Cathy is a volunteer mentor for WriteGirl, a non-profit community of women writers that promotes creativity and self-expression to empower teen girls. She is a long-standing member of Soroptimist, an international volunteer organization committed to advancing the economic empowerment of women and girls through access to education.
In addition to writing and volunteering, Cathy enjoys reading, knitting, cooking and walking with her husband, John and Lemon, their dog.
View all posts by Cathy Standiford
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2 thoughts on “Signs of Change”
I could see your patio Cathy. I welcome the new year.
I could see your patio Cathy. I welcome the new year.
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Thanks Jane!
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