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FOREST MAKER

The gentle dark embraces me
in cool dense southern air
as winter finally starts to flee.
A lone hound sadly bays somewhere.

I make plans in the deep of night.
The coming day I shall be tractor bound
making the acreage just right
clearing weed and brush choked ground.

For the seedlings of a new forest
arrive in just a few more days.
Until then there will be little rest
for this man with hair of white and grays.

I'll start it off with tiny pines
eight feet apart in winding rows
and hope they're not choked out by vines.
The rows will not be laid too close.

Then there will be months of rest
but the planning will go on.
If heart keeps thumping in old chest
next winter will see another dawn.

For then will come the hardwoods' turn,
oaks, chestnuts, persimmons, hickorys,
will be set out as time keeps up its burn
despite late winter's crispy breeze.

Finally will come the time to wait
and rock as years pass slowly by
while small seedling grow toward being great.
Their shade will one day block the sky.

I realize I am now an old man.
too old to see this work mature
for forests devour a long time span.
i don't see me in that far future.

But my sons will see the forest arrive.
They'll listen to the acorns fall
and long past when I was alive
my grandson will see walnuts grown tall.

Style / type: 
Structured: Western
Review Request (Intensity): 
I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back
Last few words: 
When a man reaches a certain age he makes no long range plans which include himself
Editing stage: 

Comments

been included. Your sons will see a part of you in those trees. They will see the value of planting seeds of the future. I think that there is a subtle difference between [of] and [for] the future. Just can't explain. Good luck with your trees of the future. ~ Gee.
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There is value to commenting and critique, tell us how you feel about our work.
This must be the place, 'cause there ain't no place like this place anywhere near this place.

I hope this land stays in the family long after I'm gone so that the young ones of today will have a place to walk when they need a bit of tranquility. Thanks for dropping by.

author comment

Sentiments in evening of life exquisitely expressed along with love for generations next

a pleasure to read...

Regards..

raj (sublime_ocean)

When all the "old folks" one used to know are gone then one must look in the mirror and realize that You have become an old one. This then brings to mind that it would be nice to be remembered for Something lol......stan

author comment

left me breathless a really classic stand out piece brought tears to my eyes it was that good

Mario Vitale

My poetry usually makes people cry for a Bad reason lol. I an pleased you think so highly of this one and appreciate your taking time to visit.......stan

author comment
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