Flower

I’ll miss you, glitter-drenched flower. You were brave

to stay as long as you did. Through two weeks of solid wind I watched you,

hoped you’d make it—wished for your safety.

I tucked you under the ash tray,

wedged your stem between the table slats

yet this evening you were missing, no sparkle on the porch

or in the lawn. I guess you’re off to greener pastures.

I’ll miss your plastic petals, the hilarious thought

of someone finding you beautiful. You and I

weren’t so different, two ugly things

made lovable by brashness.

I smoked my cigarette

and went back inside, missing you. I put my ring into its box—

a sad reminder of how a pretty dream

can simply be tucked away.

Godspeed, flower.

Find certainty.