Standing Guard
A swan song. My poem and interpretation.
One spring morning
right before dawn
there was a lovely swan
sitting by the pond
waiting patiently
amongst the grass
on this quiet morning
then without warning
golfers arrived
she stands tall
protecting them all
while nearby on the nest
he sits on the eggs
and takes a rest.
About this poem.
I was watching the geese one morning and I wondered a few things as I observed them.
I decided to make the geese into swans because it sounded more poetic. Why not? So, I did a search on swans online of course.
Swans are vigilant and protect their nests and babies like most creatures.
Usually, the female swans are sitting on the nest unless they need a break.
Sometimes the male swan will sit on the eggs, while the female (mom), can take a break for what is necessary. She can eat, drink water, rest and stretch her little legs. No swan spa for her today.
Yet, in this poem, the mother swan feels like she has to protect them all. It makes me wonder if she feels like she's always on high alert. Does she feel like she has to protect them all?
She has this time to eat and rest, yet the conditions aren’t conducive to do that with the arrival of golfers. Does she always feel on edge? Can she take care of herself so she can be there for herself and her new family?
Meanwhile the dad swan is resting on the eggs appearing unruffled. He is taking care of the eggs and seems to take things in stride.
Could the mom swan relax and know her mate is there to help? They are a team taking care of their family to be.
Does she know it is not on all on her shoulders, or does she feel like she cannot give up control?
Maybe I am reading into this too much, but it reminds me of how humans are sometimes. I can also see myself in the mom swan as is not wanting to give up control. I sometimes feel I have to be vigilant at all times. When we are always on high alert it isn’t good for ourselves or those around us. Knowing that has to change can put stress on us too. We can know that about ourselves though and recognize it. Change does not happen overnight. It’s ok to give ourselves grace too.
This reminds me of being a passenger when my husband drives. I'm on high alert, anticipating possible trouble that he might not see, as though I were the one driving. Yet, he drives by himself all the time without incident. We humans are curious creatures. Beautiful poem.
I can identify with all of this.
Yes indeed I can so relate . I have had to really work to let go of control with my two kiddos- as they go into adulthood. Slowly. I am very overprotective but I have made so much progress and my faith has helped me.
I also have this really difficult situation going on- and I have zero control over the outcome (it's financial with fam member) and it's so hard . But I actually used AI for good - I gave it all the scenarios and it helped me create docs for best solutions for worst case to best case. Helped ease my stress
I also- have returned to my faith in a kind God of my understanding - and pray for an outcome that (obviously yes isn't stressful lol) but is best for all /family etc.
pain and struggle does connect me to God more - and control is part of that.
Beautiful poem and reflection Jane!