Written in honor of Marywood Franciscan Retreat Center, which has since closed.

Ode to Marywood

I truly wish that I could
Run a place like Marywood
Offer cabins with lovely rugs
Staff and trees who do like hugs

Help people fulfill their wish
To swim the lake just like a fish
Some do like to chatter and yak
Other like to paddle kayak

Come my friend and take a look
They have a great and caring cook
You can have a spirit guide
And then Find why the cook has pride

Wander until all you see
Is yet another silent tree
Come for prayer or come for art
Just be willing to do your part

Because this is A place That    has a heart
A place you go to be apart
Dedicated to God above
This place can offer only love

This is a place that must run well
It is not a place that we want to sell
And since I want it to be trendy
I’ll leave the work to my friend Wendy