By Olivia Holloway

As the trees
lose their leaves
I find myself
wondering
were the leaves
ever there

as I stare
it's hard to remember
the warmth and green
with this looming December

[the barren trees
signal a settling]

Slowing down
and staying in
stepping back
to re-examine
for a change in
direction

Always wanting more
than what's in front of me
and if these trees have
taught me anything:
it doesn't always look
like it will be