Feijoa Bounty

That pineapple guava,

or feijoa—

a delicious fruit,

that ripens in autumn.

My kids and I gather,

in pounds,

enjoying the sweet pulp,

making jellies with surplus.

It’s nutritious, fabulous.

We often educate people,

if they show interest,

but it’s sad—

so many of these fruits rot,

simply because,

people are ignorant.

They buy store foods,

laced with preservatives,

at high cost,

while this ambrosia,

free and natural,

bites the dust.

That day, we had gathered

a large pile,

we stopped at a park,

to savor some.

I saw a man in his van,

vaping away,

surrounded by feijoa shrubs.

I felt pity for me—

and a little anger at myself.

What kind of writer,

and researcher am I,

if I can’t help people,

make better choices?

People, don’t take,

this life for granted.

We are blessed,

with ample bounties.

Don't ignore them,

don't embrace poisons.