Mixed Bouquet

You choose -- a rose or a carnation?
One's fitted for a crown of thorns,
the other less a coronation
but quite attractively adorns
a suit's lapel, a wreath or laurel?
Well well, I see no need to quarrel,
each has its beauty, truth be told
and can be something to behold.
The rose is taffeta and velvet,
carnation: satin, silken cloth.
The petals are as bright for both,
so put that thought away, and shelve it,
the blossoms need not to compete,
and the arrangement is complete.

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You choose -- a rose or a carnation?
One's fitted for a crown of thorns,
bestowed by a forgetful nation,
so quick to anger as it mourns
the loss of yet one more messiah,
refusing, still, to answer why her
begotten son is not of god.
Was there another that he had?
Or a carnation, lowly flower,
best suited for a laurel wreath,
her dignity so far beneath
of those who seek to wield real power,
but safe, uncomplicated, bright.
In an arrangement, a delight.