I planted my tree in a cemetery
and only had eyes for
its variegated greens
and the wispy white blooms
steeping gently in my cup
I tended and delighted
delighted and tended until
I grew weary next to you
and sat down on our
headstone and wept
There was never going to be
more life here and I
finally knew I’d wasted mine
thinking there could be
more growth than decay
Where had the light gone?
You held my hand at first
reluctantly and then slowly
squeezed until my bones
crushing made you laugh
While you told stories
I pried away crying as I must
say goodbye to my young
bride’s hopes to cherish and be
cherished until death
I still visit when I have to
in my mind and wish
too many things to say
watching from afar
other’s orchards bearing fruit
