The Rangoon Creeper Vine

That’s the Rangoon Creeper vine—

also called Madhumalati.

Lovely vine

drapes arbors,

gives dappled shade,

and clusters of flowers

on long pedicels,

in colors deep pink,

light pink, and white.

A delight to the heart

of any beholder.

Emits pleasant fragrance

adding enchantment to nights.

My father planted

this woody liana.

The last time I visited

my parents’ home,

he was no more.

Kith and kin were preparing

for his funeral,

to honor him.

But the liana

near the backyard wall

bloomed profusely.

My little daughter

picked the flowers

and made a garland.

We humans perish.

Our legacies remain.

Plants are

a beautiful way

to stay immortal.