Azaleas

Kenia's Wednesday Challenge at Real Toads

was to write about the connection of men and nature

and how I connect with the pulsing life around me.

I chose a photograph I took 

at Tulsa, Oklahoma's Woodward Park

for my inspiration.

The azaleas wink

with ruffled eyes

flirting with my muse

to write of their grandeur.

Words form to be erased,

insignificant phrases

too dull to express

the blossoms perfection.

How can I describe their majesty

when even the water

ceases its bubbling to act

as their hand mirror?

Their reflection

of red petal blush

and wedding white

shines on its surface.

My winter spirit

rises from its frost

to be renewed

by azalea blossoms.

I cannot write with justice

the glory of your blooming.

I lay down my pen

and bow to your beauty.

©Susie Clevenger 2012

Real Toads