Sunflowers in the sand

baffle my preconceived notions,

such a traditional earthy flower

sprouting alongside the ocean.

 

It draws me in,

such an unexpected sight,

yellow-bursting heads,

mini-suns against the muted,

so bold and bright.

 

So many thoughts

beyond the beauty

begin to orbit

in my mind.

 

I am reminded

of childhood,

encouraged to

color in the book

true to experienced life,

don’t make the sun blue,

stay within the lines,

learn early

to close your mind.

 

Sunflowers in the sand

seem to defy,

toss their heads proudly

yet their humility

roots a portrait

symbolic of choosing

one’s own path

and life.

 

People on the beach

pass by,

seem oblivious

to the mini-miracles

and massive messages

that entrance

and shape me

from the inside.

 

And that is the difference

between the photographer-poet

and the others:

we see beneath and beyond,

we hear the whispers.

 

We capture it in the lens

and ink-dipped pens

and present it back to you,

artfully gifting

a beautiful impression,

another perspective,

a deeper connection,

hoping you’ll pause

long enough for

reflection.

 

Sunflowers in the sand

should never be overlooked.

You would never find them

in a coloring book.

 

Poem and image ©LauraDenise