Who Knows? (Poetry)

Who knows now what the years may bring?
the serpent and the dove
wait in the tree that aches for Spring
and whispers dreams of love

For after dawn doubt’s darkness creeps
to steal its hopeful light
and hide it where the future sleeps
forever out of sight

The seasons come, the seasons go
and disappointment’s pain
eases when warm breezes blow
then dullness rules again

Rich fruits of Summer tantalize
and lure the hungry tongue
yet blacken slow before the eyes
turn rotten and are gone

Each Winter brings its Christmas cheer
the tree is decked in spite
of every woe hearts gather near
its symbol shining bright

Then as the year comes to its close
even the godless pray
the dove of peace will banish foes
and drive all snakes away