A Grand Lady

Majestic oak trees shelter ruins.
Gray moss hangs as funeral shrouds,
to protect remains of a grand old lady.
Versailles was once the pride of Louisiana.

The original owner was a wealthy planter.
Traveling the gardens of Europe,
he procured cuttings for his royal gardens.
Remains are sad neglected vines of Vienna.

At his daughter’s wedding,
large Chinese spiders spun webs
in giant trees. Field hands used bellows.
Festive gold and silver dust sparkled.

A broken arch stands in loose walls,
revealing a hollow light. Look closely.
Ghosts of tattered soldiers wander.
They carry each other with gentle trust.

This is land where men, black and white,
watered oaks with red blood of courage.
If you listen closely, you can hear their prayers.
“Lord, take me home to lighten the load”.

By Kathie Stehr
March 3, 2011