as wise as it is beautiful
a mystery that undresses slowly
beneath an admirer’s gaze
blooming in each moment that passes
without frivolous concerns of forever
seizing the present with purpose
and vulnerable strength
fierce stems remind me to protect
the magic within as soft petals
whisper in sweet shades of powdery pink:
undress your soul but
keep your thorns sharp
against undeserving hands.”
A.P. Bastian 