AS LEAF BREAKS FORTH

        AS LEAF BREAKS FORTH

As leaf breaks forth in early spring
        To peak upon the world so bright,
The miracle of purple bloom
        Unfolds, like waking from the night.

Almost unnoticed midst the twigs,
        Yet, in its glory fills its niche
As chill of morn yields to the ray
        Of healing light on mulch and pitch.

All purpose is to others give;
        All life enriched by peteled bloom.
And I, beholding, touched within,
        Respond, partaking sweet perfume.

No life, how simple, is in vain,

        Nor are its moments soon to fade.
For life's enrichment comes to all;
        Today, from mem'ries past, is made.

                            Rodger S. Gunn
                            April 18, 1986