This is a poem I wrote in July 2008 and I am posting it today in honor of International Seed Freedom actions from October 2-16: https://www.facebook.com/events/436131536428020/
In praise of self-sufficiency
I once holed up almost an
acre-island of sand and trees.
Many days spent on knees
amongst chickens and rabbits,
trowels and error.
Slowly, I learned
and from the soil I earned
the right to eat
the right to bear seed
and harvest, and plant again.
Rising early, leaving the cries of
children whose needs are eventually met,
at the back of a fertile lot
I encompassed my plot
visions of soups and health
and vegetable wealth
This morning, the birds are in
concert with me
their chirps encourage
stomata to unfurl as
the bees about
have a brush with pollen
and stamen
and ensure early success in my
unfolding drama
Many years later,
herbs dried and harvested
flowers only in photo
The soil a Piedmont away
and the babies, almost grownups
more mature each day
the sun shines, but at a slightly
different angle
I pray for the earth
and meditate on angels
that will sit upon their shoulders
as they drive away
and make their own truth
I have been here but
am only part of
their plans
my influence has largely passed
and now I can only
be the place
Where their ideas are discarded or supported