Seeking Renewal in Autumn – a poem as the clocks turn back

BritMumInNZ

The days are shorter, closing in,
I DEFY them to dampen my mood,
(shouting loudly to the sun, setting earlier each night).

IMG_3697

After all, the weather is still fine,
outdoor pursuits remain inviting,
I just need to better manage my time,
(or start wearing a head torch).

I fill my house with candles,
repeating an inward mantra of,
‘This is nice! A silver lining,’
(and try to believe with my entire being).

I sign up for events that force me out;
training for my first marathon,
forty two kilometres,
(in the month I turn forty two).

Marathon training run

Marathon training run

I notice the green return to the earth,
where a long dry summer has left it scorched.
I run past the vineyards, ripe with grapes,
(and think how good they will taste on my lips).

‘There is renewal in the darkness’,
I tell myself, every year –
I just have to look harder to see it
(well of course carrots & glasses would help!).

Mt Victoria, Wellington, New Zealand

Mt Victoria, Wellington, New Zealand

I shall travel through these dark seasons,
with a stronger sense of acceptance,
and come out in spring all the brighter,
(like the bulbs tucked up deep in the earth).

I embrace this time, as the clocks turn back,
with strong resolve not to be beaten.
I shall come through this renewed and ready
(oh so, very, very, ready – for spring).

© Sarah Lee, 2 April 2016

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This is my second poem for National Poetry Month (or Global Poetry Month) and I’m also linking up with –

Prose for Thought

and

mumturnedmom

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4 thoughts on “Seeking Renewal in Autumn – a poem as the clocks turn back”

  1. Running 42 miles in the month you turn 42 is very inspiring. And I love your poem – how strange to think of things getting darker when over here in the UK things are getting lighter at last. Your photos are lovely – makes me want to visit this stunning part of the word #prose4T

  2. Of course, your clocks go the opposite way to in the UK! Actually, I have to confess I love the autumn – yes, the dark can get a bit much but I always take the opportunity to cuddle up on the sofa in front of the fire with some good telly. It’s cosy. Good on you for signing up to 42 miles! Sounds like you’ll get through to spring just fine!

  3. You are preparing for autumn just as we hope for spring! I love the way you are looking at winter as a time for acceptance and renewal in time for spring. And, well done on the marathon training, I’ve never managed anything longer than a 10K! Thank you so much for sharing with #ThePrompt x

  4. It feels strange to hear you preparing for a different season to us. But I do love the way you have put this. Well done for signing up for the run and all the best with it. Another beautiful piece Sarah, thank you for linking to Prose for Thought xx

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