This Spring the Poppies Bloomed

A field afire papery petals glow like ruby votive candles a collection of cupped solar flames vowed to shine despite the dew before dawn evaporating any doubt the sun would rise the mist would lift consoling one in darkness Rising up where wildflowers past have fallen victim to soil fallow and shallow your Spring growth resurrects my hope as your resurgent blooms stretch toward the heavens I awaken thawed from the frost of loss regenerated by dreams of undying love sacrifice and pleasure O poppy blood red vast your bed a symbol of life and death and imagination.. you inspire me with your irony your roots belie a feathery foliage anchored though airy light and looking like you might take flight but spirited blossoms stand an army of angels earthbound and blushing My breath stops when I gaze upon you — yet when I walk among your thronging whorls grazed by your grace my chest rises and falls my bloodstream set ablaze by the grandeur of your inner light my heart rejoices with the voices of breezes aswirl with a swish through your scarlet banners of peace We share a savor for new-day chardonnay skies tender the warm tinge before summer’s singe rhythmic air moves us with singsong sighs a swaying dance of celebrants with nary a fresh bud trod upon crimson and sunrise spirit and flesh raising palms and psalms in thanks and praise festive in rebirth and remembrance where tears fall not as rain but as c o n f e t t i as my soul carries the bouquet of your immortal beauty like a bride on her May wedding day Susan Ashley March 11, 2022 *Dedicated to my father who gently passed on June 10, 2021. You are loved and missed dearly, dad <3 <3 <3 ~ First Place ~ Premiere Contest: Spring Showers or Spring Flowers Sponsor: Regina McIntosh *nary: not, or not any (Image: Glow with pride: Express.co.uk)