under the eye ofoxalis violacea
I calculated the quadrants
of the universe
as if my back yard
were its center.
tiny purple blossoms dangled
above its green leaf canopy,
leaves all in threes,
the rich cluster is a volunteer
living among a Christmas cactus
transplanted from the wiregrass.
its acid taste is soothing and its chemistry is a balm as a tea,
a blood cleanser,
a remedy for ulcers,
used to reduce swelling and fever,
and in the hands of St. Patrick,
the lowly violet wood sorrel
became the manifestation of
a theological mystery;
a vivid visualization of
that which cannot be visualized.
simple violet wood sorrel
watched over me as I divided
the universe.
