how these
tenacious plants grow
and multiply
as if by magic
soaking in all
that nourishes
sprouting thick
leaves swollen
with promise
prepared to survive
any dry spell
occasionally
blossoming with
unexpected bursts
of color
it seems there is one
inside this chest
which has seemed,
at times, barren
but as with any landscape
there are surprises
ready to herald the arrival
of the right conditions
the arrival of brilliance
narinda heng 