Purple Irises with hues of gold and fragility The purple Irises glistened in the morning stillness with three tongues that lick as if to catch a dew drop upon each tip Golden bearded and strong these living gems calling for those lucky enough to scent and see them. Rhizomes barely catch the earth, with roots that serve as a place of rebirth Dividing as they go year after year, they double in show Oh, this beauty with for my eyes to see I cannot keep them for only me with friends true I shall share. and next year bring to them this joy I find in a purple world with hues of gold and fragile love. *Thanks to Mary for her input on writing this poem. ? Calac Chris Lane