I built myself from cactus

I built myself from cactus.
I built myself from chlorophyll and photosynthesis,
and desert sand.
In the desert I cannot afford to be eaten.
In the desert I need every drop of water,
I need every molecule of nitrogen.
Instead of leaves I built spines.
Instead of leaves I built pain.
Instead of leaves I will not be eaten. I will not be eaten.
Still I am here.
Still I am here.
I wait.
I wait.

~M.M.

Photo by M.M.