We’re all rust-colored leaves

sinking through the sky.

Dreading the asphalt

and stillness of earth,

we pray for a sudden gust

to keep us in flight.

Out of nowhere, a warm breeze,

a freedom only wings can bring.

Just a touch and a whisper:

unexpected and short-lived.

It lifts the soul

for a fleeting moment,

and leaves its empty promise

to return

before we land.