Cherishing the Fall

I remember that first moment,
Looking into your eyes,
Feeling myself drowning
In the blue ocean I found there
It was like going to a thrift store
And finding something
Worth a million dollars
I was just looking for a casual flirtation
But found myself mesmerized
I think it scared me a little
Thinking of how easily I could fall
I thought I knew my future, and
You weren't the one I pictured
I laugh at myself now,
Thinking about what I gave up
The pain of my choices
Compared to the fear of the unknown
I gambled on the safe path
Left the joy of a beautiful Fall
Only to spend decades in the brittle cold
Of a stormy winter and a muddy spring
I see the changes in myself
The colors brightening
The warmth filling me
Knowing this season may not last
But determined to make the most of it
I won't let the dread of Winter
Keep me from cherishing the Fall
            5/3/12