(for Joan Stockbridge)

If one is waving, perhaps bobbing
its orange head in your direction,

whether you’re a native or exotic,
take it as a friendly greeting,

a botanical hello, especially on
the hottest days. They’re meant to thrive

when the sun blares, when their flowers
grow fullest, these resilient cups of gold joy.

They prompt us to smile in return,
remember that we are built to flourish

in arid conditions—like now—despite
obstacles, stronger than we think,

that we can withstand and sway,
that we will rise again.