I like it here because it is lonely.

This is one of the loneliest places in the world.

Rocks and stickers in the swells of heat,

Thistles, nettles and mosquitoes

Are the only things that thrive in the chalky soil.

And me, I am a lonely nettle

Here on the plains,

With my dark leaves, my fancy white polkadots.

My flowers scent intoxicates,

But no one dares to smell them

Except the loneliest butterfly,

Desperate for the best nectar bits.

It lands gingerly on my sturdy flower petals,

Carefully feeds between my stinging tendrils.

It's dainty feet tickle me.

I feel the deep yearnings and satisfaction of pollination occur,

Throw my head back and laugh at the hot day sun,

And realize my work is never done here,

And it never will be.

-jenn