As we watch
the magician’s sleight of hand,
awaiting error
to show us his ways and fallibility,
the real show goes on.
Slow, slow,
sit and look from where the Paeonia scent
rises out of sleep..
the ants gathering in the folds of petals
tremble in her grace,
walking their tiny regimented paths.
The swoop of sky above holds its breath,
wondering if today
the full bud will open.