Like a woman

wanting to be full

growing

things from within

I plant the nasturtiums, the thyme,

basil, balm, chamomile,

pansies, geraniums, snapdragons,

lobelia, poppies and so much more

I have something to say about their future

I say: trust me

I'll feed you, take care of you, trim you

I'll honor your place in the pot

in the basket

I'll show you off in special places

like in vases,

in foods,

in poetry and song

Hallelujah!

And like a woman caring

I'll seek out cures for your ailments

and above all

protect you...protect me...

The visual, sensual, emotional,

spiritual, mythological

the pinks, the purples, yellows

pure whites, greens and

greens on greens

red clay pots and brown black earth

Tell me, where else can you feel these colors

Where else than here

in paradise

in the interior

Like a woman pregnant

I feel the promise and joy of life

moving within me

This must be the beginning of the world!

Hallelujah! Amen.

© Anitra Redlefsen, 1993