I remember
The first time
I saw
A Jacaranda tree.

In Lisbon
We threw open the window
To the courtyard below,
A Jacaranda tree ~
Soft purple,
Sweet scent,
Fado costumes
Hung out to dry
Beneath the Jacaranda tree.

I looked at you,
You looked at me.
Travel weary,
We shoved the narrow beds
Together.
We made love
Until laughing
We fell sideways
All arms, all legs
Between the beds.

You are dead and gone
The Jacaranda trees again in bloom.
They shed their blossoms
Purple snow beneath the trees.
Already green leaves appear.

The Jacaranda ~
Your eyes,
That warm afternoon.

Your eyes I long to see
As we walk alone
Beneath the Jacaranda trees.