In autumn,
leaves come to the end
of their functional lives.
They can no longer produce glucose
to support growth of the tree.
Between the time they lose function
and their actual demise,
they burst into colors
so deep and gorgeous
we are mesmerized by their beauty.
We do not mourn the loss of function;
instead we marvel
at the magnificent display of hues
to our eyes so beautiful
we can’t get enough.
Autumn comes to women too.
Between the time we are no longer fertile
and our actual demise,
aspects of our selves ripen and burst forth
in magnificent colors, beautiful and deep.
Let your eyes see these colors.
Let them bring us close and nourish us.
Be drawn to us
and don’t look away.
Lois is retired from a career in academia (Chemistry) in California. She also taught Hebrew School and tutored B’nai Mitzvah for a decade. She is a member of Temple Beth Israel in Waltham. Lois is also a member of the MA State Poetry Society / local CREW Poets branch and lives on the oceanfront in Winthrop. She is proud to be a new member of the ever-growing group of indomitable octogenarians.
105 Hudson Road, Sudbury, MA 01776
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Thank you for this beautiful, meaningful poem. As a 90 year old myself it touches my heart as I continue on this journey of life and love. Elizabeth David
September 4, 2026 at 2:13 pmA beautiful and very thoughtful poem! Lois, you go girl!
September 4, 2026 at 4:45 pmChemistry and a sort of spiritual alchemy as well.
September 4, 2026 at 6:53 pmThank you for this inspiring post.