Ministry of Animals

Malvaviscus arboreus drummondii…

A present from my mother-in-law so many years ago,

Reminder of her wit long after her passing…

It is also called Lipstick Hibiscus,

make up for my garden…

I thought of her as I gathered the blossoms for tea…

Musing at the survival and seemingly indestructible qualities of the plant,

Much like her love.

And then a spider bites my hand

Bringing me back to the present.

.

I had honored the flora,

I had forgotten to ask the residents before harvesting!

.

Give thanks to those

Be they flora, or fauna, family or friends

that brought you to the place you are today,

But remember

To be in the place where you have been brought.