I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.
Joyce Kilmer (1886-1918) Read his bio here
This much loved “golden oldie” poem was turned into a very famous song, by Oscar Rasbach and recorded by such greats as Nelson Eddie and Paul Robeson as well as featuring in several movies. Scroll down to listen to it on you tube.
Recently I bought a tree. Not a little baby one but a 1.9 metre tall tree. A Magnolia Blanchard. It was an exciting experience. This last year, three of my trees died, who knows why, probably our very wet winter … but like the writer of the above poem, they had a short but rich life full of giving. They were tree lucernes, planted to attract and feed the bush pigeons (Keruru), which along with hundreds of other birds, they did. See one of the trees complete with Keruru below.
They also flowered prolifically. In all they gave much pleasure. I think the magnolia, which is a lot more slow growing, will take life at a slower more considered pace.
The magnolia is known as a symbol of strength, perseverance and dignity. Good things to have in these challenging times. Be well safe and happy. Helen
gurglewords 