Beautiful Deception
Glistening in the morning dew,
A shimmering deathtrap
Awaits the unwary.
A labyrinth
Of silken strands
Entraps prey
For the hungry spider.
Beware, traveler,
Of this beautiful deception.
Written by Andrew (jaunty looker, main banner, far right) in 2003 when he was 10 years old in 5th grade.
I'm not sure how my younger son came to be a poet. I took the photo and I'm a writer, but I only dabble in poetry. Perhaps by osmosis from my sister Sylvia or her daughter Sarah. We owe a debt of gratitude to Max Brand, Deer Run 5th grade teacher, who nurtured Andrew's creative gifts throughout an amazing year of reading, journaling, writing & projects, with an unwavering passion for learning and belief in his students. Keep up the great work, Max! We love you.
My husband Steve (studmuffin in shades, main banner) produced a calendar of Andrew's poetry accompanied by our nature photos. Like Athena, poetry pops out of Andrew's head full grown. I just edit punctuation, occasionally tighten a line, and sometimes elicit a synonym. A voracious reader, Andrew's vocabulary has always been impressive. I've discovered periodically you receive wondrous gifts that are mystifying, humbling, and joyous. I feel that way about my husband, my firstborn, and my baby. (And, of course, the weasel.) It's probably best not to overthink how or why gifts are given, but just give thanks and try to appreciate them fully.
Here's to you, Andrew. You're a fine young man and I'm inexpressibly proud of you.
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Redstocking Grandma
Greg Justis
the squirrel
Deven McKay
screamin mama
Sarah Fister Gale
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Comments
Thank you for sharing the beautiful poem and image.
A nice break during uncertain times.
Dog lovers, if you haven't yet, you should read Gary's post "Devotion" (http://open.salon.com/content.php?cid=11099), which is a conversation with his beloved, departed Dobie Fergus.
Gary, I didn't comment on your site because I need to go work on my hurricane piece part three and if I respond to your heart-breaking and heart-warming post, I'll end up a basket case for the morning thinking about my first girl. Beautifully written!
rated and loved