Desert Rose Poem by JJ Evendon

I am a creation of the Sahara -
just sand grains cemented together
on a dried salt basin.
Above, an arid featureless and desolate land
where nothing grows except me.
I am a pearl in an ocean of sand.

I am prized by seekers
and a source of intrigue
in the world beyond my borders.

I am complex yet unrefined in detail.
The very essence from when I became
blown by the sirocco wind
helped shape and expose my body
infusing it with the colour of sunset.

My petals are made of crystal
and without fragrance
have all endured the ravages of time.

I've become a jewel of the desert
a 'desert rose'.
I am one and the same
I am both hard and delicate
I raise curiosity, induce excitement
and am admired and praised for my beauty.

I have travelled into the world beyond my borders
to be found resting in your hand.
You are the seeker.
I desire nothing.
Though you may have a question,
I am unable to answer.
I can only reflect what you already see.