July 13^th, 2021

Today the red peonies in front of my steps,
Some are beginning to fade,
Some are beginning to bloom.
When they bloom, I do not understand
Why they are so beautiful,
For when they fade,
We realize that they are like phantom bodies.
How far is it from here to the
Gateway of the Void?
With these faded flowers,
Let me come and ask you.