Look Susan

(Published Palabras-Press Online, May, 2006)

For Susan, whose son died of pancreatic cancer, age 53

Look Susan,
have you noticed,
the almond trees
are still blossoming
full and fresh and pink
all the trees
in the whole country

they’ve survived sleet
and freeze and heat
it’s simply a miracle
they’ve never before
bloomed so long

they’ve been awaiting
your return
so that all the blossoms
may fall at once
and blanket the land

a pink tribute,
a petaled salute
in remembrance
of
your
son

© 2.2006 Helen Bar-Lev