some parts of the rain
really do welcome
the plant within us
to grow;

the stem chokes you
and the thorns cut up your throat.

the plant will eventually
bloom out of your mouth
and then, all of us,
will never know

of feeling cold,
nor of pleasantly
dry thirst.

and those who will know

are to be left
alone;
unbeknownst,
until they’re gone.