10: Baobabs

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Baobab
by Edward Hujsak

Ancient one, you have watched
over a hundred generations of my kind.
Your ugliness is softened only
by bird nests that hang like pendants,
and greening when the spring rains come.

You are an oasis in the desert.
You pocket water in hidden cavities
for thirsty travelers, who make
lemonade of the powder in your seeds
and drink it to calm their ailments.

You are the eternal shelter to all creatures.
This morning school children gathered
in your shade for lessons.
Tonight a leopard will stretch
across your loins and sleep.