Steps to Picking Raspberries
by Jody Collins
First, avoid the bumblebees
zooming in for latent sugar
dripping in the rain, their heavy
soaking reflected in drops
from satiated rubies you hope
to pop in your mouth.
Second, beware the mildew, mold
and bursting moisture of berries
too long on the vine, having missed
the summer sun as you did, wondering
at the absent heat lo, these many months.
Third, cast a watchful gaze
at ubiquitous spiders who’ve homed
themselves midst the leaves, hiding
from the birds and maybe you. Their webs
give them away, as do the smattering
of mottled globes in the bottom
of your small bucket.
Lastly, swallow them, tiny yet tasty,
fresh and fruitful on this first day of Fall.
*This poem is from Jody’s book of poetry, Hearts on Pilgrimage-Poems and Prayers
Jody Collins is a blatant philologist and poetry lover living in the Pacific Northwest with her very patient husband. She uses both gardening and writing as therapy, often featuring her 6 grandchildren, whom she thanks God for daily. Jody’s been penning words since Smith-Corona typewriters graced the desks of her middle school, but nowadays you can find her thoughts at www.jodyleecollins.com. Connect with her on Twitter and Instagram.
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