LONGING/THE SOLDIER’S BLOOM
In the bitter wind of mountain’s high crest
He plucked a hidden fire from the stone
And placed it gently on my weeping breast
Before he left to face the dark unknown
"Keep it," he whispered, "high upon the wall
It needs no water, craves no earthly soil
As long as these red petals do not fall
My heart still beats amidst the battle’s toil"
Each rising sun, I wake with heavy dread
And softly touch its skin of velvet grace
I fear to find a single leaf is dead
I fear to lose the shadow of his face
But still it glows, untouched by winter’s chill
A crimson comfort to my weeping eyes
It tells my aching heart that he lives still
Beneath the silence of the northern skies
So breathe, sweet bloom, keep your vow
Be my survival through the lonely years
You are the only bridge between us now
The only flame that dries my bitter tears
Khan EAGLE
NOTE: Cultural Significance of Prometheum sempervivoides
Known locally as "Hasret Çiçeği" (Flower of Longing), "Ömür Çiçeği" (Flower of Longevity), or "Asker Çiçeği" (Soldier's Flower), this vibrant red alpine succulent holds deeply rooted emotional meanings in Turkish folklore:
• Longing and Reunion: The name Hasret Çiçeği symbolizes the profound yearning between separated loved ones, representing hope and patience during long times apart.
• Endurance and Lifespan: Its title Ömür Çiçeği stems from its extraordinary ability to survive and stay vibrant in harsh, rocky mountain environments with almost no soil. This embodies longevity, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit.
• Devotion and Duty: In some regions, it is called Asker Çiçeği because its blooming period is associated with the time young men return from or leave for their military service, serving as a token of remembrance and loyalty.