Dandelion

Flashing golden in the sun 

like a buttercup or a bumblebee, 

your soft, sunny face 

recklessly jubilant 

in empty lots, 

sidewalk cracks, 

abandoned gardens. 

You love to pop up 

like a little joke in the tidiest yards. 

Homeowners yank and spray at your unyielding roots, 

but like a wild horse or a runaway train, 

there’s no stopping you, dandelion. 

Abundant and enthusiastic as the third chakra, 

you delight children everywhere 

who know your secret 

edible milky stem 

and how a friend who likes butter will glow yellow 

when your bright blossom is held 

under her chin.