With time, leaves fall

I’d like to think that as we age 

The search for validation 

 Becomes a search for truth and honesty; 

That, like this cherry tree, 

Once past the time we’re bearing fruit 

We glow briefly with accomplishment, 

Then humbly drop all that we were,

 Letting it fall to nourish what may come 

And stand with vulnerability 

 Exposed before the wind in humble testament 

 To what has been, now letting the world see 

Both what’s beneath and what’s beyond; 

What waits on the horizon.