The Plant Tender

By CHANA PERMAN

You left a note for me, neatly penned,

The plants on your porch,

Can I water them?

You went camping for a bit.

You’ll be back – eventually.

In the meantime, may I tend

To your baby trees?

I’m happy to oblige,

But something you should know:

I’m no green thumb,

My plants actually ungrow.

I can write you many poems,

I can do that with ease,

Yet cannot vouch for these baby trees.

Well, I’m a good sport

So, of course, I said yes,

Armed with pitchers of water,

Though I do confess,

I’ve never babysat plants.

(I’m just a wee bit nervous.)

Still, how wrong can I go

In my plant-watering service?

Originally from New York City but currently living in Toronto, Canada, CHANA PERMAN is a Jewish poet, mother and learning strategies instructor. She holds a Master’s Degree in special education, and has worked in that field for 25 years. Her cherished roles as mother, teacher and guidance consultant provide inspiration and material for her writing, both prose and poetry.