After the frost, the snapdragons remain standing.
They didn’t change colors the way the basil did.
Didn’t shrivel and flag like the beans.
They met the cold affront with beauty,
and a week later, they still stand, erect,
blossoms only slightly faded.
What an astonishing way
to meet an almost invincible force.
Even now, at the base of the lifeless stems,
tiny green leaves appear from the roots.
They insist, This isn’t over yet.
I am continually tutored by beets, Brussels sprouts, sweet peas. Their semester-long teachings are augmented by sycamore, ash, and hickory trees. And when I pay attention, rocks have lessons to pass along too.
You, my friend, I know, are an amazing student of rutabegas, too … and rocks, and ash, and compost. i am grateful for the ways you pass along the lessons.