Leaves
Decay from the outside, in
As autumn color dries
After abscission
But people
Decay from the inside, out
Emerging ignorance
And self-doubt
People
Grow within sprouting buds
Splattering rain drops (drop)
Pollinators hum
Petals peel
Humans bloom as jade vine 'til
The too-crisp breeze pulls color
From their leaves