Shade Under the Leaf

I stepped into the cool shade beneath a giant hosta leaf to catch my breath away from the bright yard. Right next to an overturned clay pot, a dry brown seed pod was resting in the mulch. I picked it up with both hands and wedged it firmly against the terracotta curve to see if it would stay put. It held completely rigid, making a solid little backrest. I sat down on the packed earth and stretched my legs out. Everything was peaceful under the broad green roof, and I paused to listen to the soft garden breeze.