The Candle

The Candle

Click, click, click - burning candle stick...
Leaves are shed for winter’s rest, outdone by evergreen’s warming sheen
Windows misted in every corner, shading shadows beyond - this morning
Hard frosts held and gripped our land, drew blood from hand uncovered and unprotected
How vulnerable and weak we seem walking paths, arms outstretched in balance
Teetering and tiptoeing in an awkward dance.
Clear blue skies have scattered misty clouds - high drifting ladders seen climbing to heaven
Dispersed to vapour and rain, to trickle noisily down empty drain...
In a while I’ll plant those spring bulbs, bury them gently in cold earth - yet to freeze to iron
Hoping that their slumber will make them stronger, I wonder
Will time help me remember each plot and area I scattered tulips and crocuses
Colours to lighten the heart and soul from late winter’s chilly scold
Those simple activities we embrace to chase away the blues...
Gazing through my open window, drapes drawn back and held by golden ties, I watch
Roof tiles steam, holding in radiated warmth - sun bathed homes bright in late morning’s sun, yet
Cold to our touching hand, to draw goose bumps to arms and shudders to shoulders -
Reminding me to dig out scarves and beanies, gloves and woollies to fend off “the willies”
How quiet the world seems when the wind has fallen - in my mind I picture mankind at peace
At rest and unmoving as the boughs of the oaks that stand tall and strong in the distance, holding
Tightly on to their final golden leaves, until they finally fall, silently and crisp to earth -
To be cheerfully kicked by children on their way to school or blown by fierce winds to form
High swirls of noisy movements...
Almost silently I hear the crunch and crackle of smouldering wick - light smoke and heat rise
How gentle the light is flickering and sparkling against the clear pane - rising and falling
And here it remains...a beacon of hope and faith
A small light to guide...