It’s as if the trees received a memo
regarding protocol for the first day of fall.
Perhaps it encouraged them
to put on their autumn best,
a little red and yellow razzle dazzle
to get us all in the mood.
Maybe it reminded them to keep it subtle,
versus shocking the world
with an overnight explosion of color.
Easy does it, gentle giants.
No need to rush
into your glory season,
stopping traffic with a crown of many colors.
Little by little,
you will change before our eyes
and we promise to appreciate the show.
