In a season of deprived dreams and uncertain possibilities, a cactus stood alone guarding its gifted spirit.

Barren and humble in its dormant hours, reality drained its luster, threatening its life and changing the very essence of its days.

But through faithful knowing and constant hope, the ill winds of fate reversed their flow unrecognized in the flooding rains.

Acceptance washed away all that had obscured and sheltered a miracle in the waiting.

And then . . . there was spring.

(c) 2002 Jeanne Bonine