Neptune’s Gifts
Like soldiers on parade the palm trees stand
as if to guard their place along the beach
where life began. White scimitar of sand
the ocean built keeps waves just out of reach
and salt from tender roots. Queues offer shade
beneath their supple fronds where one may see
ripe coconuts or savory dates. They’re made
from Neptune’s gifts; an orchard's panoply
now offers sustenance from distant shore.
Cool solace from the sun’s unblinking eye
and food fit for a king but even more;
serenity beneath an azure sky.
We’re drawn to such idyllic scenes on Earth
for there we find the crèche of mankind’s birth.