All Hallows’ Eve, 2017

The leaves on the trees in the woods have fallen.
There is a misty air to the atmosphere.

I still live my life deliberately, but I am alone now.

Keeping you in mind, I will do what I can to help people in need; people who live with fear; people whose hearts are broken.

I will always fight for peace, justice, and equality.

I will continue to be your poet.

As I light the Jack O’Lantern…
as I distribute the treats…

I will keep in mind the broom, the clothing, and the hat that are near the door.

They are a reminder of the beautiful, magical person who once lived here.

Paul Cech has been writing poetry since 1970. Several of his poems have been published as Saturday Poems in the Pittsburgh- Post Gazette and the Thomas Merton Center of Pittsburgh has published several of his poems in NewPeople. Read other articles by Paul.