“Alone”

A wonderous thing is a butterfly

resting prone on shattered stone

Determinate symbol of transformation.

A slow furry crawl is how it began;

rarely noticed, larvae blend into a scene

weaves its own blanket, cocoons in alone,

in its chrysalis bed for one to three weeks.

From Common to Monarch, Fritillary to Brimstone.

Solitary creature, so brave and aloof.

In dazzling features, discreet subterfuge.

winged beauty its power to delight the most stern,

Diffusing our stress, set our frowns apt to turn.