The reason it is lighter in the worn areas is because the color is in the finish. Since cherry is such a tight grained wood, it will not accept a wiping stain. The easiest way to repair that is with a spray lacquer tinted to match the color of the original finish. The brand I use is Ultra Classic Wood Toner made by Mohawk Finishing Products. It's available in about 30 wood colors. I know you want the easy way, so here it is. 1) Clean the entire surface with Wood Elixir. At the same this will restore whatever finish there is as well as sealing the wood where the finish is missing. 2)Wait at least 24 hours before applying your tint coat of lacquer to those areas that need more color. 3)You can now apply a clear top coat of either lacquer or poly. I use Varathane Diamond finish because it is tough, waterborne and almost odourless. Follow the label instructions and you can create a very professional result.