Here in this island paradise
that knows only the summer season
the Great Spirits long ago decreed a tribute
must be made to autumn
and with their generosity of soul
decided to sacrifice
their beloved Plumeria tree.

Reluctantly she sheds her leaves
holding fast to her last blossoms
till the very end then showers
them upon the earth forming
blankets of purest pastel color
like none most eyes will ever see.

Looking out my kitchen window I watch
as the leaves fell silently on the walkway
seemingly weeping tears
like a little child whose double-dip
ice cream from a cone lays at his feet
one can but imagine a whimper of protest
for no new buds come forth
the tree knows what to her has been decreed.

The fallen blossoms pink, white or yellow
fall one by one and are scooped up
to adorn the hair of the maidens,
made into the last Plumeria leis till next spring,
decorate a plate of food lovingly presented,
or float with candles in a bowl,
and each year we who love her feel badly
for the sacrifice of the lovely Plumeria tree.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Although not indigenous to the Islands, for generation after generation the Hawaiian people have believed the Plumeria tree to be sacred. Consequently Plumeria is always capitalized. Plumeria is also called frangipani.

© Marcia Miller-Twiford
2002