Autumn Tidings

Recently I've started to notice the odd glimmer of russet and gold lurking amongst the tree branches on the walk to work. I've tried ignoring them, but there just seem to be more of the darned things every day. And with the nights drawing in and temperatures beginning to approach more comfortable levels I suppose I'm going to have to face the fact that Autumn is here.

I still have somewhat mixed feelings about Autumn. Over the years I've had passing fancies for all the seasons: A Summer affair lasted throughout my childhood; a dalliance with Winter saw me through my teens; Autumn tore my heart asunder in my twenties; and most recently I've been courting sweet gentle Spring. Though I've managed to remain on speaking terms with Winter and retain cordial affection for Summer, I don't think I've been entirely comfortable with Autumn since our parting.

Perhaps it's her unpredictability and odd temperament, sequeing so easily from blissful calm one moment to tempestous rage the next. Or her phoenix like beauty, born anew each year in a verdant flurry, only to burn fiery red until eventually naught remains but the charred black skeletons of the trees.

Perhaps. Perhaps this year will be different and we'll make amends. If not, then, well, Winter will be here soon enough and then only a few more months until Spring returns.

Ah Spring...