my sea, my orchard
by Jennifer Stankovits


When I was a girl, I dwelled near the sea

I went to him always and always, he spoke to me.

Among other things he said, "Jennifer, you're a special girl . . .

"To always come, sit, stare and think of the world.

"I hope that as you grow, you don't forget the time

"You have spent here and that I've imparted to you a clear mind."



When life hit me hard and I had to come to understand

Things that girls don't normally ponder, offhand,

I would go to the sea, think hard and he'd listen,

Then he'd lovingly, wisely answer in each ripple's glisten.

In parting, I would thank him, always wishing to stay,

But having too many things to do, force myself away.



Now I have grown and am the mother of three,

Only occasionally are we likely to visit the sea.

Though, always in my children I perceive that the sea

Imparts to them clear minds, just as he did for me!



I do wish to again dwell near to the sea,

But the love of my life has bestowed upon me

A home and an acre including a fruit orchard!

So to my orchard I now go, when life hits me hard.



Today, as I meandered through the quietude of the trees,

Once again, Hark! I heard the sea speak to me!

He said, "Jennifer I am here, now among your trees

"For God has relocated me away from the seas,

"He asked me where on Earth I would like to dwell

"And I answered, 'Near Jennifer Lord, to see that she's well . . .

"'She can't come to me lately and I have from You, new replies

"'For just the thoughts and concerns that plague her special mind.

"'Lord, permit me to go to her and live among her trees

"'And again impart the clear mind that for her work, she needs!'



"The Lord said, 'Alright, it shall be done . . .

"'But how can We guarantee to the orchard she will come?'



"I said, 'Ah Lord, I think I have just the trick,

"'It's the Ruby-throated Hummingbird's glimmer she can't resist.

"'I'll call an Archilochus colubris into her sight

"'Each time she approaches, she'll see it as a sign.

"'Suspecting that whenever she comes she'll perceive

"'A metallic Ruby throat, I believe she'll not wish to leave.

"'Then as she tarries You can answer the cry of her heart,

"'Through me and from Your Way she'll never wish to part.'"



And so then, I am told, my Good Shepherd bade my sea, "Go,

"Jennifer will be blessed in her orchard, it shall be so."