The Winter of the Soul

There is a time of spring in our devotion
When shoots of prayer are vibrant, fresh and grow
To be the sheltering foliage of the Faith;
When acts of goodness spring surprisingly
Like crocuses, from duty’s barren land.

Then winter comes to test the soul’s devotion;
All prayer is frosted off; the Tree of Faith
Rooted deeply in the ground, stands bare;
And all that blooms are icicles of doubt;
And all that blows are sneaking winds of boredom.

But the Tree stands firm; and its dark silhouette
Remains unchanged in winter’s icy winds;
For all things have their season, and spring returns.

Fay Clayton