The Red Hibiscus

A red hibiscus bloomed In the backyard yesterday Reminding me of my mother And things she used to say. Like, “Oh, look at that butterfly And the color of its wings,” and “Don’t you just love this time of year, It’s so uplifting in the Spring!” She would doddle ‘round like a queen without a crown Admiring all the plants and people living, Seeing deeper than eyes can see Rarely taking but always giving. She loved plants and seeds of every kind From azaleas to zinnia flowers, And talked to them like family and friends Any day or nighttime hour. Daisies, tulips or marigolds Roses, or chrysanthemums, She loved them all, Spring, Summer or Fall In shade or the open sun. And there were times I was embarrassed By her childlike, effervescent ways, But in retrospect, I’d give anything To have just one more day. Of hearing her voice speak softly Like she did when time stood still, “I love the red hibiscus, son, and you, I always will. © Terrell Martin, 12/14/2024