A Guide for the Vine

I walked down the garden path this morning, seeking fresh air beyond the house. Inside the glass greenhouse, a wandering ivy shoot had drifted over the edge of the cedar potting table, dangling helplessly without support. Beside an aged terracotta saucer lay a coil of natural twine and a smooth brass garden tag. I measured the stem's angle, then carefully threaded a loop of twine between the vine and the wire trellis behind it. With a patient knot, I eased the climber into place without bruising its tender green rind. It stands firm now, reaching toward the morning sun.