Reaching for the Light

In the waiting room, the plant
Sat near the windowsill.
Purple leaves were nodding
Like they had their own free will.

Their skinny stems supported
What were leaves split up in threes;
All were dancing to the music
From the radiator breeze.

Outside the sun was shining
Though the day was brisk and cold.
That brightness drew the plant
And like Svengali, had a hold.

For every leaf was straining
To get closer to the light.
I wondered if they’d loosen up
When day turned into night.

I guess we’re not so different
‘Cause it’s natural to yearn
For whatever makes us cozy
And it’s to that source we’ll turn.