1. Bamboo
By Trisha Barry Copyright 2016
Somehow bamboo grew
On Long Island (NY)
Behind the house
Like so many important things
that happen - in the background
Hollow yet resilient
No one’s back yard
Except hers, ours,
Had it
It appeared out of nowhere,
Starting with one small shoot.
She who had almost broken
Was sent bamboo
To remind her
To bend quietly and grow
Underground, in darkness
Till the whole backyard
Swayed and shimmered
With bamboo
Peaceful rustling of leaves
An image I carry with me
And a place I go
When I need her
She who is gone.