Slanted Light

The darkest days are here
when the sun peeks out from an
endlessly clouded sky
and the evergreens are satisfied
     their deciduous foes vanquished
     for another season.

The darkest days are here
when the last of the herbs fade in the garden
rosemary, sage and thyme
will slumber until spring
     the last of their tiny, fragrant leaves
     tinged with brown.

The darkest days are here
when a chill lingers
in the crisp air
and the squirrels plan furiously
     for winter comforts
     with acorn treasures buried all around.

The darkest days are here
when geese formations
pattern the skies
occasional honks warn those breaking ranks
     to catch up 
     as the flock moves endlessly forward.

The darkest days are here
when we reflect on  
the sweet shortness
of our days
     reminded of the need
     to be a light in the darkness.