Fireweed
By Mackenzie Dysinger
Proof that beauty can come from ashes
fireweed is the forest’s great asset
because where vain wildflowers dare not grow
fireweed declares her home.
When the lupine and the bluebell turn their petals up in disgust
at the miles of a burnt forest ash and dust,
when fate takes an unfortunate turn
fireweed is not in the least deterred.
She simply smiles and sets herself at work
determined to create a better brighter world.
Throwing bits of herself to the wind
fireweed begins to remake the earth again.
Photo by Allison Sayer.