Never before

Never before
have I so closely observed
the moment-by-moment
unfolding of spring.

Never before
have I paid so much attention
to the inch-by-inch growth
of peony stalks
the petal-by-petal uncurling
of plum blossom
and cherry blossom
whose appearance
always signals my daughter’s birthday.

Never before
have I delighted so much
in the minute changes revealing
bud then leaf then flower.

Never before
have I peered so curiously closely
at the bowing fritillary heads
and the unique snakehead pattern
on each flower.

Never before
have I seen so full and bright
a moon in a pale blue sky
harmonising with the dusktime
melody of chorusing birds.

Never before
have I allowed myself
to be immersed
in the moment-by-moment
unfolding of spring.
© 6 Apr 20