Challenging Poetry

in memory of lilacs

I never see lilacs, anymore,
purple clusters wafting sweet spring
for long weeks into my waiting soul.

instead, dogwoods unfold white blossoms
and cherries blink pink
for a day or a week.

fade into green, too hot
for delicacy to flourish.
maybe I'm stronger for their absence,

but today—I want to bury
my nose in lilacs
and remember being young.

line count: 12
prompt: flower