As we leave behind the cold days of winter and see the world light up with new life, this poem is a reflection of that beautiful start of spring.

snow mounds become droplets of rain water that kiss flower bulbs  
perched on the ends of trees that sway together against the wind
they raise their branches towards the sky
cutting shapes out of its blue canvas 
beams of sunlight peer through the gaps 
touching exposed skin and gleaming against squinted eyes

the sweet scent of blossoms carries warm notes throughout the gardens 
leaving a trail of soft exhales in its tracks
loose petals dance with the wind until they find a resting place 
a soft patch of grass 
a wide brimmed sun hat 
some daring ones balance atop the koi ponds

one petal floats onward
as she rises above the clouds 
she looks down below
lines of trees dotted with pink and white hues
contrasting against the iridescent crowd of visitors 
all trickling in one by one 
just to see this year’s collection of millions of tiny petals 
just to catch a glimpse 
of the return of spring

Process

This piece was inspired by the start of springtime in Brooklyn while I was walking through the Botanic Gardens. I took my sketchbook one day and jotted down a few words that came to mind while people watching and sitting at one of my favorite spots under the cherry blossoms.