Until When

How often must I plant a flower,
Water it. Watch it blooms. And then fades?
The wind is silent… but mumbling,
And the sequoia says:
Two thousand nights and days maybe.

For how many times
Must I make a wish. Wait.
Fall asleep—and watch it fades?
The old man has no clue,
Not even a iota.

For how long should I wait,
Before manna can fall off the sky?
The agony the mother in labor knows;
And wise guy look into his deep thoughts
But find nothing.

How many miles are awaiting ahead
For me to travel?
Should I wait for some miracle
Or should I look in vain
For answers that may never be unveiled?

Will I have anything left to plant,
Wish for, take care of, and be proud of?
Will there be anything left to water
Watch, wait for, care for, and live for?

—Dick M. Joe Trio

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