Christmas cactus

This silly plant has never obeyed
by blooming in its namesake season;
I’ve always secretly appreciated
its subtle defiance.
This year, it had its usual show, a good month in advance,
and then its dull protest throughout December.

But it started an uncharacteristic resurrection
about a month ago, when we first dove into seclusion;
Just a few blooms at first,
but now it’s in full swing –
A blossom on every branch and still more buds forming,
a riotous red symphony, feast for the eyes,
miraculous gift of intensity by my breakfast table.

I wonder – did it know we would crave its cheerfulness?
Does it just enjoy the company of voices all day long?
I worry that maybe it’s spending itself,
that it will burn out in this manic fury,
that maybe it’s actually killing itself -
Emptying of colour and life
just to bring us a little joy
in otherwise bleak circumstances.

It sets a beautiful example.