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Bark

As I sample layered,
chocolate peppermint bark
I am thinking
of a different kind
that still effectively
transports sugar upwards
distributing its
generous gifts of sweetness
to the very crowning glory
of the family tree
all while rough, tough,
seasoned exteriors,
are a protecting skin
from the harsh elements
hiding rings of well fought
private growth, dancing
concentric in alternating years
of quenched or rasping thirst,
reaching towards
the nourishing light
while rooted and grounded
in place, gnarled and crusty,
durable, with corrugated,
crumpled exteriors
like the furrowed faces
of good old
storybook crones
that grant wishes
to kind souls
and are sometimes
festooned in green
frippery and frills–
they are resting now, dormant
as breathless wallflowers
after their standing ovation
chilled out at last but
still upright
sturdily awaiting
sprightly spring
when their sanguine sap
will happily run again.
I am temporarily
satisfied somewhat
by the candied facsimile,
but I treasure the humble,
ubiquitous namesake
much more.

by Polly Castor
12/11/18

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