I Am A Chrysanthemum - 08.30.06

I am a Chrysanthemum, strong willed and ready for battle,

I wonder how long I will ride in the saddle.

I hear the strong wind as it pulls on my petals,

I see the enemy with all of its nettles.

I want to stand strong against the grazing cattle,

I am a Chrysanthemum, strong willed, and ready for battle.

I pretend I'm a warrior getting ready for war,

I feel the ground shake as the enemy approaches my door.

I touch my armor and get ready to fight,

I worry I won't be able to stand through the night.

I cry when it feels like my ship has lost its paddle,

I am a Chrysanthemum, strong willed, and ready for battle.

I understand that the world is full of hate,

I say that Satin tries to get us with his bait.

I dream that someday the sun will shine,

I try to remember the last time the rain was mine.

I hope for a time when I won't need to hide from the grazing cattle,

I am a Chrysanthemum, strong willed, and ready for battle.

- Kimberly H. G. (13 years old)