Contributor Series 3: Resolution and Resolve
If I stop to pick up a leaf
By Sarah Endo
If I stop to pick up
a red-rimmed leaf
with golden heart
I want to revel in that
I don’t want anyone to say, come ON!
or
NO, you have to carry that
yourself–I can’t carry any more
If I stop to pick up a leaf
brown brittle and small
I don’t want you to doubt me:
Why do you want that leaf?
(crummy crumbly leaf)
I want you to marvel with me
or
at least allow me to marvel, myself
If I stop upon a heart-
shaped leaf
bold gold and red
If I’m five and find
such a leaf
won’t you marvel,
revel too
a red-rimmed leaf
with golden heart
I want to revel in that
I don’t want anyone to say, come ON!
or
NO, you have to carry that
yourself–I can’t carry any more
If I stop to pick up a leaf
brown brittle and small
I don’t want you to doubt me:
Why do you want that leaf?
(crummy crumbly leaf)
I want you to marvel with me
or
at least allow me to marvel, myself
If I stop upon a heart-
shaped leaf
bold gold and red
If I’m five and find
such a leaf
won’t you marvel,
revel too
Sarah Endo’s poetry has appeared numerous times at vox poetica; her most recent poem, He’s a keeper, appeared in November 2009.
Oh Sarah, this is so incredible as a poem and as a wish. As a wish, because implicit is the hurt when the “If” is not fulfilled. Thank you for the beauty–and the tears.
Thank you so much, Jean! I really appreciate your supportive words.