To the Gardener after reading Psalm 1
by Elouise
Your words, so beautiful to read,
Crush me beneath the weight of
Life already lived – a great muddle
Of garden-rich vegetables plus toxic
Stew of tongue and cheek hurled
My way, often from my own mouth.
At this age I’ve little left but memories,
Plus ever-present directives from
Well-meaning people and ill intentions
From the other kind. To say nothing of
My own sometimes distressed mind
And body seeking solace and reassurance
That I matter to somebody if not
To myself.
Here, then, is my request:
I long to start over as a small tree
Planted by rivers of clear, pure water,
Guarded and pruned by Your hands
Alone. If this is not possible, I would
Also settle for a long and lovely
Winter’s nap.
From one of Your elderly fans,
Elouise
© Elouise Renich Fraser, 3 June 2019
Image found at JackMaxwellArt.com
Elouise, you have captured the regret and longing of many a person (your age or younger): the desire for a do-over arises over the course of every life (at least, I’ve never met anyone who escaped that wish). Thank you for capturing that so poignantly and quietly. I love the imagery of a tree planted by the water. Thank you ever so much!
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You’re most welcome, Debbie. Yes, there are many of us out there…as you know better than I. Thanks for commenting. 💜
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