Plum blossoms come out first, before the leaves

While neighbouring oaks stand there still asleep

They grasp the springtime first with rolled-up sleeves

And take advantage of their kin's slow creep

Toward the spring that comes upon us all,

Prepared or not for working through the season.

So diligently toiling 'til the fall

When all will see the work was for a reason.

~

Plum blossoms come out slow and suddenly

Perceived at once, released as nature booms

Where yesterday just sticks and twigs would be

But now all bear the beauty of these blooms.

~

Plum blossoms thrive, the first of spring to dare

To show themselves and lay their beauty bare.