a winter tree


	the leaves still cling
	unwilling to let go
	of life
	    of the summer
	    and the past

	the leaves still cling
	unwilling to grow
	beyond life
	    beyond the past
	    and into spring	

	the leaves still cling
	to the lower branches
	safe from the wind
	    safe from the height
	    and the perspective

	the leaves still cling
	they've held on this long
	why stop now
	    why let go