Patch of Green

I have but one patch of green in my life.
It is a verdant, vibrant green
that can be seen through the cruel cross-hatches
of a chain link fence, topped with concertina wire.

It is such a lush and luxurious green
that one barely notices
the fading bed of browns and yellows
that rest beneath the bright green blades,
nor, the mudhole that is slightly off-center,
where the grass refuses to grow.

Indeed, one rejoices with the sight of a blooming daisy, forgetting that it is but a weed.

I have but one patch of green in my life,
but they say I have none, none in my life, nor in my soul.

Indeed, that may be true,
if life can be held back by their fence.

Karl Chamberlain

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