LILACS
If I only had the courage I would fly off with the Spring Angels
Low above the morning meadow, inhaling the sweet lilacs
And breathing out the warm breeze
To gently lay the long grass down in passing.
Some of the sweetened breezes would spread across
The meadow and curl into the waiting nostrils
Of all those who cannot fly
But stand on the periphery desiring
The same sweet things as I
If I only had the courage I would spread my wings
Across the yellow-green pastels
Like a watercolor wash with delicate punctuation
From forsythias at the foot of curving hills
To soften all the colors in those early morning hours
And anyone who dared could ride aloft
With me and touch the artistry
If I only had the courage.
Gail Hoxie, 1994
