gift poem for nefrekhetperi

had cecil's plan come to its full fruition
you'd jump at once on cape-to-cairo train
instead from that long journey you refrain
and since his fortune went to pay tuition
for bright young sparks of notable ambition
rather a handsome garden you maintain
of native plants that thrive on little rain
it seems a major part of your life's mission
the bitter aloe's green translucent heart
would seem a symbol of both hope and life
its liquid essence making some things clear
the lily's swordlike presence plays a part
each leaf a soft and succulent green knife
and there's a freshness in the southern air