Sara's Garden Poem by Lynn W. Petty

Fashioned out of a parkish setting is a small,
commemorative garden, dedicated in memoriam
to the short-lived life of a beloved child.
A retreat, created by her parents who believe
it is a fair and beautiful image of her youth,
an island filled with mystical dimensions.
In its center, on a slightly raised mound of earth,
stands an ash-tree, softly green, symbolizing
the everlasting permanence of the spiritual experience,
representing the elevated central life of her soul.
Around its roots, a saturation of floral colors,
a spectrum of her spirit, in a whirlpool of intense color.
From the shelter of its branches, one is immersed
in bird sounds, as their song descends and lingers
upon the ear.
Establishing the curtilage of this sanctuary,
warm wooden benches are placed on sandstone squares,
bringing into harmony the day's discordant
thoughts, through the balancing power of the perfect square.
Bordered by yellow day lilies, yellow, the symbol
of love, constancy, dignity and wisdom, this little refuge fills
one's soul with a quiet abundance of peace and joy.
Through the vale of death, in the plenty of their sorrow,
her parents' tears shed warmth and moisture upon that little
cultivation, where flowers appeared, binding her memory,
as a living painting, which shall not fade.