Samhain

By Elspeth Sapphire

It is the time of burning leaves,

The crispness of the air has awakened

Memories both dark and hidden,

Memories of past feasts partaken.

I sit comfortly in this silent room

Computer keyboard beneath my fingers

Yet...my mind is never frozen here

In times past it wants to linger.

I 'see' a bonfire raging on a hilltop

With my people all gathered around

Our prayers to the Gods I shout,

Yet, in my dreams I hear not a sound.

The drums beat, the people dance

Wildness fills the autumn night.

The Other Side is so very close--

The Veil just beyond the fire light.

I reach, I feel, I almost touch...

Spirit fingers entwine with mortal

Then dawn's first light appears

And seals again the fragile portal.

I turn away from the cold ashes

Let the wildness leave my aching soul.

Another year til another Samhain...

On that night again I'll be whole.

Artist Julia C. Gray