the forgiving plant

this one for Maria, who can write poems about food and prose about other important aspects of life

Basil
the emperor herb
spreads generously
aroma when touched

basil
too proud to ask
for much care
shines in the sun as much as it can

basil
when left unattended
in the scorcher heat
wrinkles and wilts

basil
will never complain
(in fact it is but a plant)
and will try to survive for as long as it can

basil
when finally remembered
and throughly watered
will come back to life with majestic power

when watered
and appreciated
will reward you with its wonderful smell
(and let you make good pesto as well)