Bright Promise

The Light softens towards 
tones more muted and Michaelean.
The Green, wistfully waning, 
grateful for days of 
summer splendor;
aware of its fragility 
and fading.

Treetops, as yet 
full and shading,
shed their first 
tender yellow tears.
Leaves too-soon tired
from too-tight clinging 
for fear of falling.

Now ready for singing 
the song of Freedom’s flutter
to faithful ground.
They are first 
to hear Her calling. 
Met with Mercy’s 
warm befriending.

They kiss the Face 
of One Ascending.
Full of Grace!
Forever Blessed!
Dressed in raiment of 
Great Gold Sun; Bright 
Promise of the Holy One!

Beyond mortal coil
and fading green, 
the Angels bear
Their Coming Queen.
‘Neath Raphael’s Wing
to heal and hide; 
Our Lady of Assumptiontide! 

~Cheryl Anne Maris 
Eve of the Feast of the Assumption 2022