In the courtyard there grows a strange tree,
Its green leaves ooze with a fragrant moisture.
Holding the branch I cut a flower from the tree,
Meaning to send it away to the person I love.
Its sweet smell fills my sleeves and lap.
The road is long, how shall I get it there?
Such a thing is not fine enough to send:
But it may remind him of the time that has past since he left
cited: Trans: Arthur Waley. A Hundred and Seventy Chinese Poems, Project Gutenberg
Note: The poem above is one of a series known as the Nineteen Pieces of Old Poetry. Some have been attributed to Mei Shēng (first century b.c.), and one to Fu I (first century a.d.).
This week’s lens-artists challenge (spring) is hosted by Tina
a meditative journey 
Magnificent post Brenda, truly. Loved the poem and your images, especially the treatment of the flowers and tree
Thank you Tina. A haiku poet once noted that to be able to write poetry one needed to first study Chinese poetry. Interesting.
Interesting indeed. I found it quite beautiful.
What a cool post, I love it!
Thank you for taking the time to visit and share your thoughts. I enjoyed reading “cool post.” 🙂
beautiful collection!
Thank you, Somali. Be safe. Be well.
Great photos!
Thank you, John. Be safe!
Tulips are always the first to show up for spring. Beautiful captures!
Yes…Lilacs are often a spring time message.
Such a super post .. wonderful images 🙂
Thank you Julie. Please be safe and well