the shadows of the pine tree set
against the velvet hills,
the laughter of the mocking bird,
the solemn whippoorwills
complaint, and kudzu serpents writhing
in a tangle through the trees,
appreciation takes account of these.

the liquid amber of the dawn,
the emerald mountainside,
the silver sequin gown upon
the body of the night,
the moon; a mystic crystal ball
into the mists descends
appreciation fully comprehends.

the tenderness behind a smile,
the passion touch may hold,
the trembling of once mighty hands
when they have gotten old,
and wiser, like the snows of winter
knowing every mystery.
appreciation, heaven is, to me.