Mid-November Rose

By: Heather Nanni

The hour has almost arrived

when the first snow will fall.

It’s shimmering beauty

will bring you death.

Even still, you stand tall, regal

among your fallen comrades.

In you I see no fear-

only defiance.

Seized by fallen leaves.

The gray tide of winter engulfing the sky.

You remain-

alone and brave.

You sprout new life

in the face of impending death.

And we are awed by your courage.

Do you mourn your fate

that you will perish in your prime

while your sisters withered with old age?

In the face of the end

you have never been more beautiful, radiant, alive.

 

Do you know?

Do you know?

You must-

and yet here we find you.

Poised-

A final reminder that beauty resides in this place.

And as you hold strong

Willing the storm to pass

We too pray

for the courage to do the same.