Decreasing Light

In late October, the blanket

of darkness takes hold.

Our outer and inner landscape

is transformed through the swift

shortening of days.

Morning light is held at bay.

Inky black presses against the

boxy windows of rooms, swollen

with electric yellow lamplight. 

A black cocoon has been spun.

Arise early. Greet this darkness.

Use it as a warm blanket.

Let the darkness soothe the senses.

Let this blanket cover you,

embrace you, love you deeply,

as only an angel or lover could.

Let it heal you, take away

the sharp edges of daylight,

the blood-stained words,

the battles, large and small,

of daily life, of human frailty,

self doubt, fear, and anger.

Use this time with considered urgency.

It is precious and fleeting.

It is an opportunity, a wing,

a heartbeat, a morning prayer.

It is the new blossom

on the Thanksgiving cactus,

ready to burst into flower

in the coming light.

Listen deeply to this darkness.

It will inform you in the 

most important of ways,

and then without notice,

it will vanish.

                                                                 J.C.W.