Roses are red
And yellow and white.
They kindle the senses,
Fill hearts with delight.
They set hearts to pounding,
Light passions aflame,
Move kingdoms and hearts
In great epics of fame.
Betoken houses and nations at war and at rest,
Mark great occasions and victories and conquests.
Inspire poets and artists
And lovers and friends
And foreswear affection
From beginning to end.
They entangle old ruins,
Grace clipped gardens, too.
Entwine all through history
From Heaven to you!
May these roses hold all that power and scope.
And infuse our moments,
Days,
Years,
And fill us with hope.