Now white winter frost silences the golden bees   / 
And drops the browned blossom magnolia.   / 
Our favourite bench sits and glitters in the ice   / 
Overlooking the chilling stillness of our lives.   / 
Park lanterns glow like tall candles and line our path   / 
Reflecting the bountiful years behind us.   / 
A lone sparrow stirs underneath a cedar branch   / 
And chirps for its mate---answered by a muffling gust.   / 
Dusk, forthcoming, is remorseful and blue-gray.   / 
Evening's purple pall falls softly with a snowy curtain   / 
Draping night's sorrow of scattered ash.   / 
At last, solemn Peace whispers through her crystal veil,   / 
Blessing our darkened walk with silver stars   / 
To guide our passing souls through the season.    /