Tightly wrapped buds swell
breaking forth into glorious
multi-colored blossoms
fulfilling their potential
with promises of fruit to come.
I gave birth to sons,
fathers in embryo,
hoping they will bloom
while I can watch over them.
Knowing it isn't always possible,
generations of families have passed on
before I came. Leaving their fruits for me
to discover and build upon.
Someday, we each will experience that mystery
called death that calls us all home.
It may come unexpectedly and suddenly,
for others it will be after much suffering
and a slow passage of time.
The mystery of what lies ahead
is revealed only to those who depart.
New blossoms burst forth
as grandchildren replace the aged ones
who have lived their lives so fully.
Not wanting to leave us,
they reluctantly leave for home
and loved ones who have been waiting
for them in the next estate.
Making room for new growth
and continuing the cycle
of life called family,
generations without end.
