After so carefully washing each leaf

one day,

it surprised, saddened us

the next day,

to unfold the paper towels,

to see the wilted leaves,

life drained away.

There was no hope for the salad

we planned

to toss and take to friends

that night.

Then we were enlightened!

We saw the leaves were not dead,

not lost forever.

All they needed we found —

tall dinner glasses and water.

To put them in stalks down

gave them a chance

to slowly drink in and live out

their purpose.