An Island Poem by Barry Middleton

an island of peace and beauty
was here to bless our days
a respite from all bitterness

a tropic breeze was stirring
and orchids were in bloom
beneath a flawless sky

a turquoise sea encircled us
date palm lined the beach
and perfume filled the air

we did not wait for paradise
the mango fruit was sweet
fish could feed the multitude

this was the garden we received
when earth was pure and new
before we betrayed our destiny