Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Okto Mom--A Devoted Mother. Okto Mom has been sitting on a rock outcrop, Guarding her clutch of eggs for four years! Once she started brooding her developing offspring, She remained still, eating nothing. Over the years, she became emaciated, Her color fading further and further to a complete paleness In spite of that, she warded off, especially prowling crabs, Constantly perusing the area for an opening. After the four years--the longest incubation Known for any creature-- The hatchlings scampered out of their encasements And moved away in all directions, While she succumbed to the awaiting scavengers. Such devotion--to be noted-- And a demise to be recorded and eulogised. Frank Maurer 24 December 2023 1510 Hours.