Miracle Baby

• Clara Fernandez, Grade 6
• Poetry
• 2010

Miracle Baby
By Clara Fernandez

Huddled silently in the mother’s womb,
His lullaby, the symphony of a maternal beating heart.
The elephant calf desperately fights for survival,
Each vital organ struggling to play its part.

According to experts, he is dead to the world.
But little by little he is preparing for a journey.
Through the darkness, a piercing light floods his atmosphere.
He progresses forward, but ahead there is difficulty.

He emerges on to the face of the earth, half of his body mobile.
Taronga Zoo staff are in awe of his endurance,
Tenderly they care for his needs
The calf is massaged by staff hands with determined perseverance.

His shuffling gait earns him the nickname, “Mr Shuffles.”
He brings delight to the public with his unique charm.
Your true name describes you beautifully,
The miracle----Pathi Harn.


(Poem is 4 verses of 4 lines each - hard copy sent in the mail)