On Life After Decay: From this Rot, We Bloom (2025)

“From This Rot, We Bloom” (2025) by Anna Dominique Santos

Admit it, we all have some rottenness inside us. Things that have long died, but not to the point of being out of sight, out of mind. You still sense it from time to time, making your eyes well up from the stench. You tried to cover it with cheap perfume and fake smiles, but it only made you choke in the end.

What if there's another way? Come on now, give me your hand. Believe it or not, you're safe. Gather them around, hold your breath if you must. Cup them with your hand and put them here. You are NOT the corruption that you carry - or used to carry. Lay it down now.

How about you tell me your dreams?

(I place the seeds in your hand)

Any new sources of joy lately?

(Your eyes light up as you speak, letting the seeds slip through your fingers)

What are you looking forward to?

(You smile while observing the seeds merging with the muck below)

Let's go, take a walk with me

You see those flowers over there?

You planted them a long time ago

Despite the horrors, hope and beauty live within you

And they will continue to do so