Kintsugi by Valerie Parente
I am still beautiful
even though I am broken
paint these cracks you see
with something golden.
When I broke
it was really an opportunity
for something valuable
to seep inside of me.
My life is richer
because of my flaws
dying pristine and perfect
would mean I didn’t get too far.
– Valerie Parente (9-7-2026)
Wisteria by Valerie Parente
The wisteria drapes
like lavender rain
and I am amazed
by the floral display.
Took several years to grow
the perennials above the road
so pure when it overflows
yet toxic in a small dose.
They say to beware
of this invasive plant
overtaking the land
but I am not scared.
I have become one with the infection
that plagued my intentions
so pretty, so prevalent
as I embrace the evidence.
Long live the twining
of nature’s signage
like calligraphy winding
in a language so binding.
The wisteria dominates
any glimpse of sun rays
but I could never hate
sitting under the shade.
– Valerie Parente (5-25-2021)
