Dahlia by Jo Cameron-Symes

You were a late comer, last year.

Content with hibernating well into the warm days of Spring.

When the sun beat fiercely down upon our

shoulders.

You were asleep, curled up, dormant.

 

The golden rays of Summer coaxed you into growth.

The Sunflowers strong and cheerful, encouraged you to bloom.

Shoots emerge, the sign of new beginnings.

Followed by leaves of green, dappled in raindrops.

 

Your first buds appeared when the leaves began to burn and fall.

Then you coloured our garden like jewels, flashing brightly.

Rich reds, purples and deep pinks,

Decorating our borders like couture gowns.

 

We cautiously waited,

For the first nip in the air,

The first ice on the wind,

For we knew this late display was cursed.

 

In just one night, one fingertip of frost caused your retreat.

Like an enchanted princess, now you wait,

For the kiss and warmth of the sun,

To awaken you once more.