Release

As we shared our word for the year,
My long-time friend, now moving away,
Said not, as I expected, “Change,” but

Release.

This picture, for me, of an arrow,
Aimed and let go, flying to a target.

This picture, for her, of a leaf,
That grew green in its time,
That now, as the season changes,
Is ready to let go,
Not grip tightly to the tree
Long after the weather says
Release.