does the rose feel regret
that its perfume is so sweet

is the thorn remorseful
over its sting

will the rooster hang its head
in shame for waking you

can a weed excuse itself
for invading your garden

does the deer hide,
shamefaced, after eating your tomatoes

is a caterpillar contrite
for nibbling the cabbage leaves

nature does not apologize
for its wonder

and are you not, as you are
sweet, twisted, noisy, quiet
part of that wonder

with no apology                               autumn frost
settles on the last petunia
struggling to survive