The Blessing of Green

To receive the anointing
of green upon my senses,
I had to disturb the bees-
and apologize-
while also gently moving
a yawning bean leaf
whose tendril had entangled itself
with the basil cloths pinned
to their own sturdy line-
tea towels, face cloths, and rags;

Basket in hand, I took up an offering
one leaf at a time, each a balm
of incense upon my fingers-
green and holy, blessing and gift.

Kimberly M. King