The Other Story of Ruth
A truck load of dried
Horse manure
made you as gleeful
As if you’d won the
Lottery the Big Spin.
Oh those beans
Would bear
paper bag
After paper
bag full of
Kentucky Wonder
Your tomatoes
Blush succulence
And cucumbers
chill crispness
That was all you
required to reap
Joy Unspeakable*
And Full of Glory
Summer’s harvest
you’d share with your
two friends named
Linda and sister saints
You believed in gifting
the flavors God gave
Jehovah-Jireh
The LORD Is your provider.
His bounty started
With manicured manure.
No reason to stop now.
* Title of hymn by Barney E. Warren
For Ruth Ann Richey 1928-2015
Mother & Master of Her Garden
HSB has facilitated the “Healing Through Poetry” group for more than 10 years. Peri Longo, past Santa Barbara poet laureate, supports individuals in grief to express themselves through poetry.
To learn more about how to register for our upcoming grief support and community education groups, such as “Healing Through Poetry,” please contact the intake coordinator at (805) 563-8820 ext. 110. No poetry or writing experience necessary.
All groups are free of charge and donations are gratefully accepted. Please note: space is limited and groups are subject to cancellation based on low registration. Registration must be completed with HSB prior to group participation. No drop-ins please.