All the Flourishes

See the little adornments,

a pearl earring,

a flimsy scarf,

a brightly painted metal rooster along the walkway,

a basket of fuchsias,

a grouping of grandma’s knickknacks.

what can you say when life is slipping away

from a loved one?

“Thanks for all the flourishes.”

look at the winter witch-hazel, awash

with fragrant blossoms,

while other plants slumber.

I’d like to sprinkle petals where you’ve gone.

wink at you like a firefly

reach back to the bright child,

offering,

giving away what no one owns.