Water Lily

by Lily Crawford

photo by Stew Woodruff

Girl in Shop, Vientianne, Laos, 1972

Gentle as a lover's kiss

The petals slowly open.

Dawn's fingertips caress

The fragile heart

Blooming within her.

A cool spring mist falls softly,

Refreshing the fragrant blossom.

Her petals strengthen and as

The day lengthens to dusk

Reflects the sweet taste of love

On her fragile bloom

And the sun that brought

Warmth and strength and life.

Her heart is ripe and rejoicing.