(for Rose Varesio on her birthday)

we are wild particles of time
whirling to find each other as we drift apart
our lives sharpened and made wider
if we can survive the velocity of love

—maria popova

•••

Love speeds by us and through us
in a forward direction, not looking back,

leaving us winded when it’s had its way
with us. But here’s velocity in action

as buds appear, tight and green,
then through no human interference

take on the shape of roses-to-be
before unfolding their origami selves

into lush fragrance. How is that not
love? Yes, it will too soon relax into

itself, allowing for a graceful end,
but are we not made wider,

have we not flourished in the flowering?
We wild particles of time have done

much more than survive. Love has
blossomed in us and ever does,

as the beloved forever lives in us
season after season.