Oh, Rambling Rose I see you grow
In profusion through the hedge;
I watch you weave to seek a place
At every nook and mortared ledge.
Abundantly your buds appear
Like little drops of dew;
A sign of coming scarlet rosettes,
Blossoms for all to view.
Then you’ll bask in proud display
On vantage points facing the Sun;
Along the hedge and up over the wall,
Everywhere your tentacles run.
The days must pass and your petals fall
Upon the Earth like rain;
I’ll look at you as your glory fades
With your foliage plain again.
The miracle of your creation
Was adornment meant to be;
For you to entwine, seek out and find
And bring joy to the Honey Bee.
Some you sustain with the nectar of life,
In your prime for us to observe;
Year after year, you bring pleasure to man
And the creatures that you serve.
Monty Alexander 5.12.96