The Whispering Willow

• Rachel Sansome, Grade 10, Ferny Grove State High School
• Poetry
• 2014

Excellence Award in the 'The Text Generation 2014' competition

The flowers are tickled by the soft breeze,
the pollen flies around, as graceful as doves.
The red-bellied sparrows try not to sneeze
as the Whispering Willow watches.

The squirrels scutter, making little sound,
the lake is still as a statue, listening.
The curious mice, over pebbles, bound
as the Whispering Willow watches.

The powerful owl lands on sandy earth –
the dirt scatters like a flock of disturbed birds.
The young deers roam – more trouble than they’re worth
as the Whispering Willow watches.

She’s wise, understanding, watching – always,
her presence is essential, like breath to life.
Others want to own her wisdom-filled ways
but it is something you have to learn.