Poem for Tidy Island, Florida

This is a poem about a beautiful little island which is hidden away in a small sound in Sarasota Bay. The island was originally created from shell mounds and became the burial ground of the native Indians who dwelt there. It is hauntingly alluring and has a very peaceful quality, which I believe comes from the spirit of the Native Indians ~ This is an ode to them:

There's a place where birds and trees
stretch languidly in warm Gulf breeze
Where once dwelt peaceful native race
now resting in fine enchanted place
On silent nights, a whispering mystery
told from old Aboriginal history

Strong-featured natives with motivated hands
carved with shells and sculpted the sands
Now still, spirits linger on wise old Palm
and lull steeped Mangrove with ancient balm
A heavenly haven in Sarasota Bay
where Pelicans, Pink Spoonbills and Dolphins play

Past, medicine-men meticulously fashioned our nest
and wisely, we fell in love with Florida' best
Where ancient hearts beat a faithful drone...
sage succor for our lofty home
We perch above their interred pride
they rock, and are moved in changing Tide

Still chanting, gentle murmurs abound
around Tidy, cradled lullaby sound
A peaceful offering for grateful dead
a Tidy place to rest aged head
On Tidy mounds as we remember
old honored patrons sweet, sound slumber.

Copyright © 1998