Mama

Roses drip red from the trellis Your dad built before you were born. Plant white roses beside the red And let them slowly intertwine. My Easter lily by the wall, Which I planted when you were small, Has bloomed faithfully every Spring Since war launched your father to wing. Plant a lily in the garden Beside the one that blooms there now When you know that I will listen To the bluebird’s sweet songs no more. I watch lazy white clouds drift by. The scent of jasmine fills the air. May the sun warm my stony path ‘Til sunset’s saffron signs goodbye.