Fragile Strength

Pattern your life
After the giant bamboo.

The exterior,
Though smooth and lovely
Is tough and resistant.
Within, it is soft and pliable
With much empty space
For continued growth.
It grows neatly and orderly –
Never cluttered.

Alone,
It rises tall and straight;
Always upward to the sky.
It spreads its beauty to the sun,
Leans on nothing,
Makes its own way.
Perhaps near others;
A part of others
But very much dependent
Upon its own strength.