The Tree

There is a 300 year old oak tree growing in the middle of the street in our neighborhood. The pavement divides around him in respect. He shows the signs of age;

massive girth,
towering majestic arms,
broken branches from which has since sprung new life,
covered with Spanish moss slowly consuming his lifeblood
for its own existence.

Yet he remains serenely alive.
Stately standing guard over the neighborhood.
Steadfast.

Upon my evening walk I felt the overwhelming urge to embrace the giant.
Breathing slowly and deeply–
tuning in to him.

I felt his strength deeply rooted in the passing of so many years–
and his susceptibility–unable to openly object to the years of acid rain
so carelessly provided as sustenance by uncaring human beings.

We embraced each other in silence as the universe looked on.
I have a new friend now–and am richer for it.

– Carol Glinski
Jacksonville, FL