Joyful Affirmation for October 2015 + A Poem

The leaves, crimson and sunshine, are cycling down through the crisp air and landing lightly and without a thought, and in the crisp calm clarity of the season I allow myself to let go of those things that no longer serve me. 

With the support of the muted light of the sun and the hushed earth below the leaves' blanket, I release the thoughts that dampen my spirit. I gently let go of the people whose presence does not bring me comfort. I allow the hanging anxiety to disperse. 

These things can be released like the dry leaves from the ever-sturdy branches that continually reach for light and warmth. 

I welcome release, peace, and a safe space to enter into a season of darkness, knowing the lightness  of letting go is nourishing for the positive growth of my soul. 

October

by Emily Nielsen
2nd place winner, 2015 Idaho Writers Guild Literary Contest, Poetry

A breath like a crinkle
     caught in a breeze like Winter's flirty sigh

The sky still clings to blue, 
     though my sweater beckons.

Leaves, extraordinary in their bleeding hues
     weave concentric blankets of
     yellow and ash,
     warmth and shadow
     around the silent trunks of trees
          like so many petrified ghosts.

October.

     You shiver in my heightened senses
     Your peculiar mix of
          nostalgia and renewal
          creeping into my collar
          and nudging like a nibble
               between my shoulder blades.

October.
​
     Warm colors in frigid light
     Early morning begging
          for one more hour of sleep.