In the midst of sad and alarming news of this world, and upcoming anniversary dates of many family members who have passed, I need to dote on flowers. It has been raining several days and will be for another week, greyness permeating sky and woods and reaching inside these walls. And I am still nursing the torn meniscus, so there are far fewer hearty walks. It seems I must wait to go in search of the living beauties. However, I’ve found other early March photos of common Portland neighborhoods’ spring flowers.
They gently tend my spirit; perhaps they will lift yours, too. Though sorrows often linger, nature’s sublime beauty and constancy help us become stronger. I plan to share more current spring garden walks. And I offer a small spontaneous poem at the end since I’ve not posted any the last two “Friday’s Poem” feature.
Oh bravest flower that startles the cold,
you keep your secrets from us
throughout narrowed wintered nights and days,
and from depth of quietude bring forth glory
of your alchemy: root to shoot to bloom.
How vital are your moving powers in
the midst of troubles. Holy amid unholiness.
I ressurect hopefulness as each leaf
and petal shine within rising or falling light–
defiance of Spring revealed in extravagance
of verve, ferocity, tenderness.
Your sweet sighs, heralding flower,
fill this unsettled mind and soul like love.
Tales for Life 
Wow what beautiful gardens and flowers!! Thank you for the beautiful poem – I’ve read it over and over again. I also have been feeling so unsettled and wrote a poem (https://shescomeundone.org/2022/03/02/earth-water-space-and-fire/) . I love how poetry takes you back to that soulful place and connection with beauty.
Thank you much, Mita.
I echo everyone’s appreciation and praise of your fine poem and exquisite pictures, so very sorely needed to anchor us to the beauty that renews us, over and over again. Hope you can resume your hearty walks soon Cynthia. Healing thoughts your way for your knee.
So good to hear from you, Susan–I think of you often, then do not write…oh, well, we are oterhwise so connected! Your words always mean alot to me. Appreciate your healing thoughts–am working on it, still.
Thank you for the much needed light, color and comfort of flowers – and your powerful and moving poem. More flowers are on their way to keep filling us.
Catherine, it memakes me happy you enjoyed
this post and poem…yes, spring in its constancy, right? We are in need of all seasons’ reassurance of the miracles.
oh yes we are!
Thank you so much, Cynthia, for this uplifting post filled with beauty and nature and hope.
Jet, I thank you, and your good words reflect your own appreciation of nature’s powers, too. Of course. Peace to you.:)
Delightful harbingers and fine poem
Many thanks, Derrick–you always know what to say. Looking forward to watching your garden grow!