Amber Leaves

A cottonwood tree stood in my Grandparents’ front yard

The yellow leaves of a cottonwood tree,
Cast their shadows across my memories
Of Grandma and Grandpa Newland.

The light and shadows of my childhood years,
Reveal the both the joys and the fears,
I carry with me from growing up in Oklahoma.

The security of a weekend
Spent at Grandma’s house lend
My present endeavors confidence.

The memory of witnessing Grandpa’s death
Of hearing, him take his last breath
Haunts me to this day.

The amber leaves of the cottonwood tree
Flutter in the winds of my memories
Bringing back my Grandparents’ ghosts.