you didn't plant roses in my mind.
you didn't cultivate a garden of the most exquisite flowers
in the saddest parts of me.
---
but you planted chrysanthemums there-
less common and striking, but known for their endurance.
but you slowly tended to all the weeds,
pulling them out one by one.
---
but you made sure that even after you were gone,
I'd be able to take care of myself.
with or without you.