Nandina and Canvas

While I may not have your DNA curled about my double helix map-

It is you who breathed my fire back to life,

     "Don't tell me you're fine! Tell me how you really are!"

You extracted my story,
      From my experiences.

Reflecting it to me
      in a mirror of love,
      "Girl, do you have any idea how remarkable you are?"

The moon was waxing the day you divulged your time is waning.

     "Anyone can be 70, that's nothing, but 80? 80 is an accomplishment"

I left that day with
      a painting,
           a plant
              and a pile of empty flower pots.

This collection sums up the kinship we share:

     Igniting creativity,
          Connecting to nature,
               Cultivating hope.

The moon was waxing the night I realized that our time is waning.

The glaring empty space where the full moon would soon be
Reflect the question back to me,
      How will I exist without your witness?

The answer I stumble upon?
     I must water your seeds planted in my soul

Look people right in the eyes
    Ask how are you doing?

And demand a honest answer!