THE BLACK EYED SUSANS

It's the time of year that summer heat builds When rain falls often, and black eyed susans Stand proud. It's never chilly at night now, but still mild Future oppressive humidity is still being delivered You'd still ask, "Is it cold outside?" "No, Mom. It's beautiful and the sun is warm." "Let's do some porch sitting" my sister said Your blankets were warm. The warmth was assured in your contained cocoon. You wrapped yourself against any slight breeze "I'm cold. Are you cold?" "No, Mom. It's 80 in here. Hard to breathe. Look outside. The flowers are blooming." My roses. The bright light. Did you see a bright light? Was it really there? Have you breathed deeply, finally? Are you standing proud? Like the black eyed Susans, soaking up the warm sun Like the mist that rises from the road after rain You rise to heaven.