early

early
for this emergence,
my blossom in the
morning sun:

early,
this soul finds dawn
across the meadow
of a lifetime,
warm rays extend
full, illumined,
hesitation gone.

once I clung
to shade and shelter,
I was at peace, curled safe
in forests deep;
but hidden, even from my view
were stirrings:
catenate of leaflets, petals,
scent, seduction...
no-one knew.

beyond accustomed fears,
I dared
at first by tiny acts,
I chanced,
each time the winds swept by
I summoned strength to leap--
to fall and rise in love
with thunder, rain
and open
proudly to the boundless sky.

so early,
after struggle,
I come this day to flower,
whole, aware:
these brightly colored petals
push beyond the bud,
unfurling,
full impatient
for the gentle breeze
that lifts my promise
bears it,
calling to the butterflies and bees;
no longer waiting--
now at final last--
I bloom receptive to life's great surprise.