Inviolable Rose

When I allow myself to dream awake,

If I allow myself to dream at all

I dream of flowers and the joy they take

At light in morning, rest at evening's fall.

I see their blissful countenance and hue

And often in the early day or late

A fragrance sense, known only to the few

Who open as the flowers, dedicate

To the sun of their thought, their soul's desire,

The bud that lies within awaiting bloom,

A many-petalled chalice reaching higher

Ever higher in that hidden room

Where all prepares the ages to disclose

The perfect and inviolable rose.