Heavenly Aroma
Each fall in southern New Mexico,
The chili pods are picked by deft hands,
Placed with pride into burlap sacks,
Stacked neatly on farm trucks,
Rushed to the nearest grocery store, and
Displayed with finesse to draw the faithful in.
A line of customers form at the chili shrine
Where they select just the right burlap sack
Like a thirsty man seeking the perfect drink.
After paying for their bundle of salvation,
Customers move on to the propane chili roaster
Waiting their turn to roast the fresh pods.
With each batch that is spun and roasted,
The most incredible aroma wafts for blocks around.
The flame draws the chili flavor out of the flesh and
Toasts the skin to release it to the air – so heavenly.
The aroma says that fall has officially arrived
In the state of New Mexico.
2012 © Dawn L. Huffaker
All rights reserved.
