for the Highlights Foundation Writers Workshop faculty, staff, and participants, July 2006

LAND OF OZ

Once upon a time long ago today
in a Land of Oz, gather a bevy
of curious newcomers from far
and near. At dawn they follow a red
brick road to the end where stands the Great
Hall. Learn there from Masters with whom they break
bread. At vespers, a bright yellow bus
whisks them away to band in play. In this
magical kingdom they romp and revel
with laughter, pick plump berries that turn
fingertips blue, picnic by the lake,
let the wind lift their hair and color
their faces rich hues from decks of sunset
cruises, dream tales of far away places.
The seventh day, labors put aside,
they convene for one final feast.
Like apostles, they listen as their
beloved leader, with humorous flair,
expounds upon highlights of the week,
then bids them fair well. Forever charmed,
no more strangers, these children's scribes,
illustrators and editors too,
eager to begin journeys not yet
discovered, depart this learning temple
on the lake -- Chautauqua, Land of Oz