Mary C. M. Phillips

Fall of the Maple Faeries

The moon had grown fat
hanging heavy with the stars
as a cool yet foreboding breeze
unsettled the little maple faeries
from their wistful slumber.

“We have made our home upon this blessed branch,” said one faery to the rest, “but the voice of autumn calls us on.”

“She speaks in truth,” replied the boldest of the faeries,
adorned in deep crimson, with a sorrowful heart.
“From bud to leaf I have known you all, and a great companionship we have shared. But this new season beckons now. It is time to gather our tears and be brave.” 

The little faeries quivered as the light of day slowly appeared and a deep sorrow cast itself upon the branches of their home.  A sorrow so heavy that the smallest of faeries — dressed in yellow, but just as fair — felt the need to finally speak.   

Her voice was gentle and one of hope as she spoke these words prayerfully and serenely:
“Thank you all for your friendship, as I am grateful for every sister-leaf and feathered friend of this life.  I will not mourn today, however, and choose to rejoice and be glad in this day.  For I shall not see any of you wither, but only fly.”

And as the day came to a close,

colorful falling leaves glistened in the sunlight

and a song sailed upon the autumn wind whispering, 

“Farewell dear sisters, farewell.”

* * *

Fall of the Maple Faeries appears in Symphony of Seasons – an illustrated anthology from Wingless Dreamer Press.

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