It could be Valley Oak or Snap-bean,
Elderberry, or Cattail rising out of the creek;
all began the same, a spark of life inside,
the need to be coaxing their will into action.
Seed and pod, nut and bulb, cajoled awake, called
by the warmth of the sun, moisture in the soil,
swelling them, filling their hearts, beginning
the slow push against the dormancy of the husk.
The earth itself helps, offering its richness
to eat, till one by one each plant claims a soul,
and bursts free into the air, breathing, giving breath,
living in the sweet light of the distant sun.
