planted across base of the oak tree;

that petunias, marigolds, small patch

of purple Impatients were never meant

to live on top sand brought in

from Brighton Beach or Coney Island.

Where he comes from sand is all around.

A welcome cover for African Gerbers or aloe,

small, arid bushes and lemon trees.

Here in the heart of the Stuy men in kufis and

long robes irrigate the land with buckets

forming small rivulets of water.

Sand upon the tree flanches, which are

akin to young lungs and anchors will suffer.

Try wearing a plastic bag over your head.

It is the same for the tree.

Oak tree over eighty years old,

an elder really,

may die under unknowing and loving hands.

One winter one will see the tell-tale signs

brown leaves that never fell

still on the upper branches.