* Magnolia Blossom

                                            She comes alone
                                            out of still cold nights,
                                            no leaves to comfort
                                            or give warmth.
                                            Unfolding
                                            little by little
                                            each day
                                            more beautiful
                                            than the day before,
                                            trusting God
                                            for sun and rain
                                            to bring her to her glory.
                                            Needing only to share
                                            her beauty,
                                            to be the best
                                            she can be,
                                            to invoke a word,
                                            coax a smile,
                                            invite a
                                            touch in wonder;
                                            heralding the spring,
                                            new beginnings
                                            and beauty in God's garden.