Six years in the desert of southwest Texas
gave me a new appreciation for seasonal change,
anchoring my soul and body to time and place
in a manner missing for those half dozen years.

Three years since my return, and my gardens
and knowledge are growing apace with one another,
layer by yearly layer.
Fruit trees that were mere twigs are now bearing
for my family, providing present and future sustenance.

I am rooted within the rich soil, rejoicing
in each rainfall in its time, each snowfall
while the gardens slumber.
Every year brings new projects, new experimental
beds and plants, cultivating harmonious growth.

The world at large may be chaotic still,
but here in this secret garden I am at peace.