Maple Arrows
As arrows shot from a volley of archers
towards an unseen foe
land in unison
arrowheads imbedded in ground
with shafts all at the same angle
littering the ground,
So do maple trees shoot their seed-pods
in spring to impregnate the soil
as seed heads are driven deep
the dried shafts – their job done,
cover the earth.
In fall the seed pods are double-winged
each a Siamese twin
Over winter they dry
prepare
for spring breezes to separate the twins
and implant each one
to provide for new seedlings.
Not death, but life, comes from this volley
as nature, not man, has designed.
(published at Taborri Press)
The Weeping of a Disappointed Womb
About 6 years ago I underwent a hysterectomy because of endometrial cancer. At home for almost a 7-week recovery, I had a chance to reevaluate my life and my job, and to more consciously create a healing haven for myself. At that time I thought I was dealing with the loss of my uterus and with the brush with cancer, but a year later it really hit me. This poem was the result:
The Weeping of a Disappointed Womb
Twice–
hiatus in the weeping
of a disappointed womb
Twice–
this womb embraced
wonderous babes
My womb was pleased
and so was I
we both reveled
in the ease
of pregnancy
the joy of birth
Long ago
a nurse said “the weeping
of a disappointed womb”
was a uterine function;
it stuck over the years
as I pondered
its accuracy and intent.
This womb, my womb,
provided good service
Symbolized the part of me,
hidden from incursions
of others
in use and abuse;
protected
within my body
protected
unconsciously by me,
until I could learn
to speak for myself.
As I apply
this wisdom
the uterus is taken from me
– endometrial cancer
hysterectomy needed
just enough time
for quick words, thoughts
gratitude, love, appreciation
for all its gentle weeping
all its being there with me
My womb is gone – and now I weep!
(published in Releasing Times)
(see also http://solacetemple.wordpress.com/2008/03/16/the-weeping-of-a-disappointed-womb/#comments)
