Bud says to neighbor Flower,

“When I grow up, I will be pretty just like my Mama.”

Flower replies, “How do you know what your Mama looked like?”

“In my imagination, I think she must’ve been the brightest.”

“You are right. Your Mama’s ephemeral life was the best our bunch has known.

On the day she was born, until the day before she passed, heavy rains poured on us.

Day after day.

Night after night.

But, your Mama smiled through every storm.

And told us to do the same.

We learned from her, the art to smile.

Finally, the Sun smiled on us.

As the rising Sun shined a light on every line in her petal,

a soft breeze brushed across her face.

And her fragrance spread in the air, all around us.

Just then, a long arm reached for her base, and plucked her away.

Your Mama looked most beautiful that day.

And I know you will be beautiful just like her.

I wish you a long life, but most of all, a life free of crushing defeats;

a life filled with hopes, dreams and a bright future.”

“Thank you my neighbor. I love you.”

“I love you too bud(dy).”