Falling Forward

The hour will change
The sky will become darker, faster

As we set our hands back
And say, tonight
We have a little more time

I feel I have infinitely less
To nurture these hours with

I am falling backwards
And watching myself die
Watching leaves change their color

But I know
Once they have gathered at our feet
A collection
Of what we tried to be

We can say,
We lived last winter's dream

Here they are gold, red, and brown
Evidence of our journey together
Of how our bodies will be lighter
And ready for new growth