Paeon to the Peony

'Christmas Velvet'

Commanding attention, amid fanfare and adoration, Madame Peony arrives, with a swish of her flouncy skirts and frothy petticoats and her almost-too-strong perfume.

'Bartzella'

And well she knows, though she may grace humble gardens, and sumptuous bouquets, she rightfully belongs at the court of an emperor, esteemed beyond value, graced with songs of praise.

'Charlie's White'

But, though filled with spectacle, her visit is tinged with sadness, for she knows, as do her admirers, that her time is brief, all too brief.

Those who adore her re-order their lives, shunning other distractions to remain by her side.

And once she is gone, no traces will linger – no straggling blooms, no fragrant reminder.

'White Sands'

But she leaves us a lesson, taught in dazzling fashion, to cherish each moment and to not waste a day.

'Adonis'

Though Beauty is fleeting and flamboyance will fade...

there is wonder to be found in the simplest of ways.