Last Wednesday, I went out shopping, that’s rare indeed for me,
Just walking along and stopping when something good I’d see…
But then my nose made me aware that strawberries were nearby,
I followed their scent upon the air until they caught my eye…
I licked my lips and gulped with glee… I got my wallet out…
Went in search for every penny and gathered these about…
I took my darling strawberries home and put these on a plate
And honey fresh from honeycomb poured out the jar so great…

Then came a slurping dash of cream anointing all below…
I smiled as if within a dream, as I surveyed the flow…
But then God stopped me just before I started on my treat…
Reminding me it was no chore, ‘Give thanks for all you eat!’
And so I did, right there and then… For cash to pay my way…
For shops to visit once again… for such a sunny day…
No clouds, no rain, no storm, no gale, warm sunshine, that was all…
A little tan for me so pale… a strawberry miracle…

AND THEN… I swirled my spoon around and licked my lips as well…
AND RAISED a strawberry that was bound to cast its wondrous spell…
AND SUDDENLY I closed my eyes and my mouth opened wide…
And tasted Heaven’s sweet surprise… with joy I couldn’t hide…
I guess that I’m addicted now… it’s strawberries every day!
Do I love them? Oh… Yes, and how! I hope I’ll be OK…
Be careful what you wish for, friends! Or you’ll be like I am…
The need for strawberries never ends, so don’t get in a jam…

I’m running out of pennies soon… and then what will I do?
Just stare down at my empty spoon… red-faced and feeling blue…

Denis Martindale April 2018.