The Petal

The geranium sits
atop the glass table
on the back porch.
It is delicate within its
soft, pink blossom,
its green foliage
firm and robust.
I rest my cup
and turn to watch
the barn swallows
scoop and soar
scoop and soar.
When I look back,
a fallen petal sleeps
beside my cup,
somehow less delicate,
somehow a bolder
shade of pink
after realizing
the courage
it took to
let go.

About This Poem

Style/Type: Free verse

Review Request Intensity: I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back

Editing Stage: Editing - rough draft

About the Author

Country/Region: United States

Favorite Poets: I tend to read Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Billy Collins, Paul Simon, Robert Frost. I like minimalist poetry, and poems reflecting on nature and Mother Earth.

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Comments

Lavender

5 years ago

Hello, Teddy!

Your comments are always so kind. For me, nature and poetry are married - nature is always offering a subtle word of wisdom.
Thank you!
L

Geezer

5 years ago

I could see...

this in my mind.The writer watching the pastoral scene and thinking about how the petal looks the better for having let go. Sometimes, we surprise ourselves with these revelations and we learn something about being independent and what is important. Nice stuff! Geez.
.

Lavender

5 years ago

Hello, Geezer,

You are right - these moments are like revelations and it seems they are right in front of us if we open ourselves to seeing and hearing them.
Thank you!
L

Rula

5 years ago

Dar Lavender

Whenever I read about petals, I think of the kindness and tenderness that God send our way . Today you've given the petal a more and more of the finest features with your words.
Courage adds more to the noble features the petal has.
Great writing and exceptional use of the language.

Lavender

5 years ago

Hi, Rula

I agree, petals are very noble! They are graceful and delicate, yet brave when knowing it is time to go.
Thank you!
L

Lavender

5 years ago

Hello, Jerry

I wasn't familiar with Bougainvilleas, so I Googled. Beautiful, beautiful!
Thank you!
L

Lavender

5 years ago

Hi, Teddy!

It was not intentional, but I see what you mean! :) I wrote it the way it sounded best when I read it aloud.
Thank you!
L