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February 5, 2000

Flowers

By the path


I saw a flower


with petals


white, violet and red.


As my business was pressing


I could not gaze on it


as long as I wished


but plucked it


to cheer my way.


Forgetfully, I crushed


it as I walked


and left it behind.


Much later


I found another


as beautiful.


I pulled it from the soil


roots and all


and took it with me.


I shared this wonder


with others who journeyed


on the same road.


Many touched it,


the roots and petals


until it was broken


and bruised


and not lovely at all.


I left it behind.


Another flower,


the same as the others,


held my gaze.


Learning my lesson,


I enjoyed the sight


and the fragrance.


I kissed it lightly


with my hand


then,


kept its dim memory


in my heart,


turned away and


walked on.


With empty hands


I greeted strangers


and suggested they watch for flowers.


William E. Rushman, February 2000

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