Like it was yesterday...

Behind the television,
Where books collected dust,
A treasure hid amid the shelves
That piqued my interest.

Between the cabinet and the wall,
My youthful frame I’d squeeze,

And find within that tiny space

A place to drop my knees…

To search for a container;

The object I desired.

Or those that were within it,

Of which I was inspired.

I’d clutch the roughly-textured box,
And peer at its contents.
Inside, from small to large was tucked
A row of elephants.

Neatly carved and smooth to touch,
Each one a mystery.
Their fragrance crept inside my nose,
Intoxicating me.

I’d visit them from time to time,

Throughout my childhood.

These creatures hewn so carefully,

In musky Sandalwood.