Gift of the Land

 
red earth
and golden shrubs
majestic roots
and kindred bark
in which was carved
the initials of the hand
that held the blade
and the mouth that starved
for the gift of the land
a jewel made
to quench the thirst
and hunger fade
into a delicate burst
of yellow orange delight
succulent love of the sunlight,
in the heat of a boiling breeze
shadowed by the leaves
breath comes in ease
steadfast and trusting
its branches ever lusting
to reach the sky
see the one that caught the eye
grip and climb without no rest
grasp the one loved the best
pluck gently and peel it well
sink the teeth into an ancient spell
exploding taste buds praise in glee
And thank the earth for this Mango Tree.