The Leaf of Life

The leaf of Life

The leaf of life hung on the tree

then Autumn came to loosen me

I hesitated in the breeze

November shaking, swinging trees

Then with my face turned up to God

I started on my way

fluttering down towards the sod

from whence I came one day

but fate had chosen other ways

to use my flag of life

I plunged, was pierced upon a twig

and there was crucified

I hung through Winter's bitter cold

I hung through Summer too

was sent to live this passive life

a contrast to the 'son' and snow

At first so delicately coloured

I faded in my hue

then turned so lacy thin and brown

more beautiful to you

I taught them love and charity

I led their pains to joy

I tell you life's frivolity,

there is another way

so heed my words and watch my deeds

your life is not in vain

you live your life,

you pay your sins

and reach to heaven again.