Death

I can feel Death 

hovering around me as of late

As the snow melts 

and the sun comes out

the carcasses of winter are revealed

one by one

I have always been able to feel Death

I was given an awareness 

at a very early age

of the ever present

possible impending 

As the end of this season approaches

As the snow slows it's accumulation

As the frost ceases invasion 

As the warmth blinks the sleep from it's eyes

a blurry image of a dying Gaul 

stubbornly insists on filling my view

Laying wounded at my feet

Pulling desperately on my legs

Trying to climb back up 

into the protective stance she has held for so long

I am afraid to let go of her hand 

which I have held for so long

afraid to stop leaning on the need for a body guard

afraid to let the armor fall around me

However, this battle is nearly over

This season of hibernation

that has lasted nearly all my life

has transformed in the womb of isolation

This tree

strong and tall

full of rings

has worked itself out of the ground 

roots exposed

ready to decompose

and become food for the newborn on its way

I do not need a night in shining armor anymore

Babies are soft

and vulnerable

and open

She will learn to walk and talk 

and discover the world brand new

Just 

as she is

baring the birthday suit of her soul

for everyone to see

broken or whole

whatever the case may be

For the dying Gaul is tired 

her job is done

and I shall lay her gently down

smooth the weary from her forehead 

softly close her eyes

and send her sweet dreams with a goodnight kiss

For she has earned this rest

she has earned this peace

yearning for transcendence

Death
shall be a sweet release