A Reminder

the moonflower cactus

(known properly as Selenicereus wittii)

produces a single blossom

(a snowy bloom)

once a year for only a day

(sometimes less)

deep in the rainforest the only witnesses

surrounding bark and damp earth

(maybe a toad or two)

this cactus unfolds its petals, showcases its stamens

and pistils when ready

this plant

sings for itself

Mathieu Cailler is the author of seven books: a novel, two short story collections, two volumes of poetry, and two children’s titles. His stories, poems, and essays have been featured in over one hundred publications such as Wigleaf, the Saturday Evening Post, and the Los Angeles Times. Cailler has garnered numerous awards for his writing, including a Pushcart Prize; a Readers’ Favorite Award; and accolades from the Paris, Los Angeles, and New England Book Festivals. Connect with him on social media @writesfromla or visit mathieucailler.com.