The Garden

A place of promise

at the start of spring

ground fertile

the promise of rain, and sun, and growth

A work place,

of turned soil, mixed mulch

weeds removed, mostly

waiting for fulfillment

In summer, a bright place

bountiful creation of plants

some for looking

others for eating

A joy to behold

At times, a dark place

of carnivorous lady bugs

pouncing on aphids

and omnivorous snails

drowned in beer

A dangerous place

where small mammals feast

with wanton abandon

until trapped, scared or discouraged

A place of promises delivered

in fall

bountiful harvest from hard work

on fulfilling tasks

hands dirty with joy.

A place of emptiness

in the winter

of dead stalks, brown leaves and

promise unfulfilled, waiting for spring.