Magnolia

With a hush befitting the

Presence of Majesty

I approach –

Footfalls like

Felt on a wooden floor

Heart aflutter with

Spring wonder in the

Dwindling daylight

Like a Bride bedecked, she

Awaits her Love

Pinky-white petals cupped to the

Heavens where a half-moon

Serenely returns her smile

Beneath her rambling branches

My body bends in praise

Arms crowning the gesture like her

Diadem of blossoms

Spreading skyward to

Greet her Maker and mine

My whole being lingers –

Breathing beauty into the deepest

Branches of my soul’s lungs

Almost afraid to exhale till her

Carpet of petals

Teaches release

We needn’t fear the letting go

As gratitude loosens grip

Hands unfurl to receive

Tomorrow’s treasures

Parc du Thabor

Rennes, France

March 2, 2020