A Fallen Friend In Clam Bayou
by Kurt Zuelsdof
I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain. Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree. – Joyce Kilmer
So often a tree disappears without being recognized for it’s accomplishments or what it may have stood witness to. As a self-proclaimed tree hugger I felt it necessary to honor the deceased -
Tony the Washingtonion Robusto Palm. Born 1800(something) - Died 1-26-2009
The life of a tree must be so interesting and diverse. I often admire what they have witnessed both good and bad in our environment and seldom think twice about the visitors that have roosted in their branches, slept in the safety of the trunk, raised a brood in their shade, and see the world change around them. . Many of you and scores more have passed by the Washingtonian palms on the small island along the South main channel of Clam Bayou. These trees are a favorite roosting spot for the osprey and a hideout for the parakeets that play in the hallowed out trunk thanks to the woodpeckers. Born as a fan palm his early days were spent watching the fishermen dry their nets and repair boats at Osgood Point. On more than one occasion Tony was threatened by peat fires that smoldered in the bayou and choked his living branches. He was present when Al Capone bought a portion of the bayou and perhaps Tony knows where J. Hoffa is? He survived the hurricane of 1921 that wiped out the Gulfport Casino and several storms thereafter. Although I’m not sure when he lost his regal fans I know it has been at least 20 years.
His partner, I’ll refer to from now on as Terry, stands alone on the small island in Clam Bayou… he will be missed.
February 9th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Don’t forget the great symbol we have often referred this tree to ‘THE PEACE’ sign.
carolz
February 10th, 2009 at 6:03 am
May the tree rest in peace and symbol live on in our hearts.
Rob
February 10th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
It’s too bad that we can’t listen to the trees talk and tell us their stories. Hey that would make a good book someone out there can take that ball and run with it! Kurt! later, bob d. PS Ashes to ashes and dust to dust– it was a good ole tree.
February 12th, 2009 at 6:40 am
“It’s too bad that we can’t listen to the trees talk and tell us their stories.”
Funny thing is that some can listen to trees. I know I’ve had a handful of experiences when the trees spoke to me. Their message is beautiful.
When the whiteman went west, some Indians thought it funny that they could not hear the trees talk.
June 30th, 2010 at 8:38 am
Now terry has an osprey nest.