The Poet's Daffodils

a poem

Welcome to Pocketful of Prose, a community for sharing stories. Pocketful of Prose is free for everyone so please share with friends. Today, I’m sharing a poem inspired by my fall planting, my belief in the healing power of nature and the wise words of Debra Magpie Earling, author of Perma Red.

The Poet's Daffodils

Beside the yellow crowned maple,
I plant a patch of poet’s daffodils

I dig a hole and turn over the earth
scattering compost with my hands
what was feeds what is
and I mix in my gratitude for both

I gently choose a bulb from the bag
sturdy, firm, and clear in purpose 
such a small thing resting on my palm
A wise woman once said,
“How rich the world is
It will save your life if you listen.”

“Thank you,” I whisper
to every bulb I button up into the earth
thank you, thank you, thank you
grazie, شكرا, xièxiè 
danke, ありがとう, terima kasih
merci, gracias, limlmtx 

Ten or ten thousand times, I thank you
till the bag is empty and the ground is full
and the autumn sun sheds its last light

In the winter when the golden maple is bare
and I wonder what happened to my hope
I will close my eyes
and listen
for these underground poets 
In a state of suspended animation
they are writing who they will become

I would love to continue this conversation in the comments. What resonates with you today? Where do you find hope in hard times? What bulbs did you plant this season?

Here’s the heart to click to show some love. Thank you!