This Gift

Wrapped fabric from distant lands, sewn by the most experienced labourers
Assembled and grown by those who devoted their lives to its protection
This gift has lived as long as I
This gift was protected by nature to ripen
This gift is now in my hands
And tonight, my Prince, I give it to you
An apple from Eden itself
Fruit from a forbidden tree
Sacred, priceless traditions from the past
Laid down centuries ago
While others have been damaged or stolen
Poisoned by serpents and sinners
Tonight, I give this to you, untouched
Unspoiled and acceptable
This gift I sacrifice to present many gifts to come
Under cover of darkness, secrecy and solitude
This gift I give to you tonight
Mine to give to no one but you
Cherished and loved
Ripe to the core
This seeded fruit
This gift I give to you