"THE SWAMP"- A POEM

Sometimes a single piece of writing captures a feeling better than any recap ever could. This poem was written by Michaiah Tatum, a summer staff member, and captures the beauty of the swamp, as well as the quiet moments that will stay with her long after the summer.

"The Swamp"

I’m where the water bends into ripples and the dying light reflects orange and purple off its surface

Locusts and crickets chirp cheerfully and I pray my mind can rest

Spanish moss cascades down and catches the wishes I wish

And egrets perch on cypress knees, looking statuesque

The wind brushes against my skin, and wisps my hair around

Nature provides for every need and I feel safe and sound

Frogs dance on lily pads and spring and leap about

Alligators glide through the water and dragonflies sit on their snout

Can I be here for a moment longer, my soul is happier

Peace and serendipity have been what I’ve longed for

The swamp has gifted me a kind and quiet love

And eagles fly up high and sit on thrones above

Fluffy seed pods float through the air and catch the evening sun

There are things that make me feel worn, and here are cast away

Something found within the swamp makes it all okay

So, I will sit at the dock and on this chair I’ll rock

I will think of gentle things and dream the night along

And fireflies will float by, and light the path for me

Nature still continues to sing and keep me company

 -Poem and Artwork by Michaiah Tatum, Summer 2026