Misplaced
At Joshua Tree, three deserts
converge, each with its own word
for desolation. Cacti
are particular about altitude.
I have lived in five climates,
dug through sandy soil, loam littered
with pine needles and stones. Learned
to compost what I couldn't throw away.
In New England, the growing season
slams into an Alberta clipper. The red
fruit of a dusty Christmas cactus
blooms against frosted glass.