21. beyond halfway through

Beyond halfway through Lent’s leaden navigation

the trees begin their early proclamation

of being; colourful invigoration.

Clouds of pink and yellow and white

cluster in fledging branches

to welcome the sun’s returning warmth

and the lengthening of day.

Beyond halfway through life’s ripened cycle

head is silver clad with thinning concentration

and the promises of tomorrow diminish

as late Summer breathes its spores -

wrinkled reminders of laughter and frown.

These seasons only tarry once

and wash away in daily tides

like laundered denim

or photographs exposed to light.

Beyond halfway through and we begin to ask

“Are we nearly there yet ?”

at the enquiry desk of patient heaven.