Angel of the Waters

While my parents were busy, my Godmother, was always taking me under her wings when she wanted to introduce me to some things in her life. Vacations in Saratoga Springs, summer car rides to the shore, and memorable day trips to New York City were some of my favorites.

On the front of her thigh Lola had an anchor tattoo of her husband's navy ship, she wore bright red lipstick highlighted with a beauty mark above her lips, and had a favorite leopard print chiffon scarf that she wrapped loosely around her head, I was 8 and hung on her every word.

It was a spring trip to Central Park, and after arriving at Bethesda Terrace , Lola said "the statues and carved stones move," (I needed to know more.) "People don't notice this because only a few know of this secret, and now like you, those chosen few will always try to catch a movement of the statue and stones" she whispered, "don't tell anyone". I was further told, that If I blink or turn away, there most likely will be a missed moment.

My curiosity turned into having no luck while staring at The Angel of the Waters, so the process to discover the carvings in the stone pillars that accented the stairs began, and they all stood quietly in place - protecting the fountain.

                                  

These carved creations and myself were always in Lola's view glancing from her cigarette and magazine as she watched me carefully touch and stare down every corner of the Terrace.

As the winding day led to shadows, my favorite Witch carving was visited more than once and finally I saw a swish of the witch's broom! In all the excitement telling Lola I forgot all the hours I spent focused on the stones and how the afternoon just disappeared with the rest of our plans. Lola whispered "I saw the angel's wing flutter"... and now we shared a special bond and exclusive secret to keep between us.

Walking back to the station Lola pointed out that most of the magical movements happen at night, at sunrise, and different times of the seasons as the stones all highlight different holiday scenarios, vignettes, nature, and themes throughout the year that spark their energy to come alive.

I so wished to witness the angel orchestrate her secret symphony of stones and her magical mystical movements under the stars.

Lola had a way of making old European dark folklore stories bright and exciting, while still keeping the magic real, this was one of those stories, and I was thrilled to have these stone creations as my friends.

Going back to the Terrace for lunch, directing photo shoots, or sunrise in the park, I would find Lola's spirit there and still embrace her voice and whispers. I still remember her saying "the magic moments and secrets are revealed for only a few that have seen the stones come alive, you and me, we'll always share that secret." I miss you Lola and maybe now I can tell a friend...

Revised The poem in full:

Secret Stones

Angel of the Water

moving stones at every turn

she heals you with your presence

as seasons show discern.

Nests and tulips carve the spring

Summer blossoms from rose to corn

pumpkins dance and witches sing

acorns lie on a winters morn.

Lantern glows on a starry night

morning suns the rooster call

bat and owl take to flight

arising day with steps for all.

Angel of the Water

Secrets saved until the yearn

to find again this journey’s path

and dream of my return.