**[revised 11-19-09] Getting Through October And Beyond Poem by Tom J. Mariani

What was it about October
That made us think
Spring would not be coming back?

The weather rattled at us,
Leaves fell,
Leaving us feeling

It's not going to get any better.
No amount of experience or
Logic will helped,

Spring last year didn't help,
When the shorter days of
Fall and Winter closed in.

Beyond October?

What was it about October
That assured us
Spring will be coming back?

The weather hinted of changes,
Leaves brave enough
To let go one by one,

Or be pushed in bunches by the wind
Took momentary flight, and
Abandoned their accustomed tree.

They made room for new buds
Provided cover for the soil and
Food for those below.

Lots of work to get ready
For Spring next year and to
Just get through Fall and Winter.

Then came November.

November brought
What October teased.
October warned us,
Rushed at us,

Then seemed to pull back
Like a gentle rolling surf.
On a rough November day
A wave rushed over our heads

Knocked us down and threatened
To pull us far out to sea.
As we floated
We saw the shore disappear.

No one will come to help.
They won't even know we're gone.
'I've got to get to December! '
We scream.

'New Year's Day! Easter!
May Day! MAY DAY! '
And we will
Even if we have no idea

Why or how