I

Quiet beauty

welcoming

upon arrival

reminiscent

of prior visits

at warm

destinations

II

Unexpected

presence in

colder places

Ireland,

England,

coastal France

with Gulf Stream

the catalyst

III

Sturdy trunks

swaying

gracefully

from breezes,

bowing severely,

even uprooted

during hurricanes

IV

Unique,

many varieties

some fruit bearing

laden with

coconuts

as its jewels

V

Regal

cited in

Biblical passages

its branches

honoring Christ’s

entry

to Jerusalem

with praise

hosannas

signifying

beginning of Holy Week

over the centuries.

by Lynn Doll