Folded young green shoots
Fledgling crocus nudge brown dirt
Easing toward warmth

Cupping an encased
Flower, yellow or purple
Delicate petals

Stretch for sun's soft light
Push fresh rough ground aside to
Inhale oxygen

First hint of velvet
Like a first breath of new life
Signals season's birth

Each petal gingerly opens
Teasing spring with hope’s color