A bee, legs caked heavy with the burden
of pollen explores the cupped bosom of a blossom—
dahlia, lavender, globe mallow—any flower
to wriggle its chubby body into and linger.
A hummingbird dons its emerald fuselage
then flits and halts, refueling mid-air. Her long
tongue sipping salvia, honeysuckle, trumpet vine—
needed means for the 500-mile trek ahead.
A lumbering spectator, I too seek refuge
in this garden, much like a bear plunking down
on fine pine needles. I paw at the open faces
of daisies and they return the gaze—these selfless
mothers willing to receive the bee, the bird, the teeth
and claw that will eventually break them apart.
Published in Cider Press Review, Volume 28, Issue 2.
Camille Norvaisas is inspired by the Frederick Buechner quote, “Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don’t be afraid.” Camille is drawn to images, interactions, memories, or snippets of history that can be beautiful or terrible. And when truly aware, exploring the beauty in the terrible.
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