A Tendril's Plea - a Poem by Jerry Clements

Today Jerry sent me this poem he has written, called A Tendril's Plea, and I think it is one of the loveliest poems I have ever read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Feel free to forward it to your friends and family members who would appreciate it. Also add your own comments using the "Comment" feature at the bottom of the entry. Jerry always appreciates your feedback, opinions and comments!

A Tendril’s Plea*

Ever alert, the tendril makes its plea
For a willing, supportive hand,
It simply begs on bended knee,
No food is sought, nor silver band.
Just a simple twig, alive or dead
To support its master’s upward tread.

Vine support is the tendril’s task
A big job for such a slender thread.
Yet, no less would the master ask.
The vine has already fought and bled
Through sprouting and growing years.
No hesitation now, better years lie ahead.

Dedication and patience are now required,
Feel the gentle breeze and enjoy its song,
See the sway of the branches newly sired,
Be ever alert to whatever comes along

Slim and tiny may be the twig in sight
But quickly grasp and hold it tight.

Once the lively touch is made
Curling quickly the tendril binds its friend
Sure to hold in sun or shade.
The union bonded sure-- to the end.
Showing to man the gain for all
From the help of a willing friend.

* Tendril—A threadlike growth extending from a vine near its growing end.

Jerry Clements 8/2/07