The Rosebush

It was the most beautiful sight in my world

But I scoffed at its deceiving allure

I watched with irresistible fascination

As the petals loosened in a breeze

Floating down to rest upon the cold earth

Leaving behind a thorny, forlorn skeleton

With each petal that flutters down

I let a dream drift away

Until I’m just an outline, a passing shadow

Of the happy little girl who used to inhabit my body

Reduced to a limp, hollow twig

Broken, lifeless, snapped at the heart