October Sky and A Mind Full of Sorrow

by Pat Severin

OCTOBER SKY

Oh, cloudless sky and crisp cool wind, resplendent color burns.

In shades of yellow, orange, and red, all year my spirit yearns

For this October rhapsody that fills my mind and soul.

I hear its song, and I belong;

October, make me whole.

I can’t describe this feeling, as deep as Autumn’s hues,

A melancholy melody much like the soulful blues.

But colors fade as Autumn wanes; the season makes its close,

Transitioning to winter white; the sparkling blanket knows

What lies beneath, so much alive yet sleeping for a time.

These buds will bring new birth in Spring,

But this October’s mine.

I revel in its splendor, Lord, drink in each fragrance fresh—

Right to the core, through every pore

Exhilarates my flesh!

I’ll savor every moment; I’m so grateful that I’m in it.

Thank God above for His great Love

And each October minute!

A MIND FULL OF SORROW

When the wind in the trees whispers its song

And the darkness of night hides my sorrow,

The nothingness comforts and shelters me,

I am safe once again till tomorrow.

This feeling of sadness is so hard to hide.

Observers, they ask me, “What’s wrong?”

Well-meaning and caring, invading my space,

“Oh, nothing,” is my constant song.

I’m getting so good at pretending I’m fine.

For a while that will keep them at bay.

But, oh, how I wish I could just disappear,

No words would they ask me to say.

This anguish engulfs me and I am consumed,

Like a leaf falling into the flames

Of a deep fire pit and is instantly burned,

Only ash and a smoke cloud remains.

Depression they call it, a condition they say,

Like the name opens up lots of cures.

But, Lord, they don’t work, so what do I do?

Can I give it to You, make it yours?

Of course, Precious Child, you can give it to me.

But why did it take you so long?

You know that I love you, you just have to ask.

When you’re weak that is when I am strong.

The first step is this, tell me all that you feel,

Together we’ll find the best way.

I know you may wonder just how this can help?

But I tell you, Child, today is the day.

You may think that no one could feel like you do.

I assure you that you’re not alone.

Open up to the new, it may be right for you,

I am here and you’re not on your own.

Remember I’m leading, I’ll guide you to find

A path to the source you will need.

Your journey will be orchestrated by me

Understand that it’s planned, so take heed.

So what do you say, Child, are you open to try?

There’s no simple plan to your goal.

But together with me, accept where I lead,

For your heart and your mind can be whole.

I’ll depend on you, Lord, for your guidance and strength.

I know they’ll be times when it’s hard.

With you by my side and with me to guide

I’ll be open to try, though I’m scarred.

I know you have suffered but I love you so,

And I know you have tried in the past.

Be open again and with me we’ll begin

To find you a way that will last.

Pat is a retired Christian school teacher who finds her inspiration in her love of God and her deep faith. She has been a member of SCBWI for five years. Pat is currently published in both The Agape Review and The Clayjar Review, as well as being featured in three anthologies by the Southern Arizona Press. She has self-published three poetry collections and a biography of her mother’s life. Her personal ministry is sending weekly poems of encouragement in her original cards to those going through difficult health struggles.