AUTUMN LIVES

As leaves fall from a tree
and the tree lives still
we drop from the living
while life goes on and on
as old leaves fall
before new lives appear.

But as nothing lasts
forever and ever
the old tree disappears
from the landscape
replaced by new trees
with their leaves.

And the old landscape falls
rises and falls into new
geomorphologies
with rejuvenating vistas
new shapes and forms
and new existences

that appear and flourish
rising and falling
and live not remembering
for a time like young leaves
on a yet vibrant ancient tree
somewhere in a new lifescape.

THE TRAIL EACH DAY

If I can remember to be
a Warrior in life;
If I can cultivate daily the attitude of
bravery
to really live life and face
death,
and know that Life/Death travel as one;
then when my proper time comes
--as it comes each day to those who watch--
I'll be ready to trod the next segment
of the Journey
down
the living/dying
Trail
of the Warrior.