The lilac bush in the backyard

Is blooming.

In September.

Their scent perfumes the whole house.

It’s breathtaking.

It’s September.

Abundant and lush in April,

Glorious and

Not surprising.

But now, blooming in Autumn…

Is it desperation?

A gasp before dying?

September, we can take this two ways—

An unordered universe?

Or an unexpected gift?