As the fiery leaves do fall,
and the dark draws away our sight,
Do they rage defiant,
against the dying of the light?

For what bravery can there be,
in those who still desire the fight.
Long after their identity’s day has set,
denying arrival of the night.

Perhaps our admiration should be lent
for those who know today’s game is done.
Whispering this softly to just themselves,
whether having drawn, lost or won.

‘Hanging grimly on
to what has passed,
nowhere else
is nature’s way.

Courage,
courage my dear friend,
to go gently
into a new day.’

(Poem taken from Go Gently into the Day)