The Morning of November 6

And just like that . . .

The trees discard their leaves
The lashing of the wind breaks the fence
The green dissolves to brown
The veering becomes an unfortunate wreck

Just like that . . .

There is no way back
Memory becomes a choice
The bank account is empty and wanting

Just like that . . .

Some step away and get lost
Threads tangle beyond repair
Skies darkening in the middle of day

Just like that . . .

I call to you and say,
Courage making my voice quiver:
Can we go on? Is there time?
Is there hope untapped?
A fortune unspent?

Please don’t tell me otherwise.
I am going to believe no matter what.
Please follow me. Better yet,
Here. Take my hand.

Just like that . . .

You do. And we stand together.
Despite it all.