A Tree

A tree extends itself, by branch, by breeze To the length, to the tip, to the end of its reach Releases a leaf in a snap, in a second To perform a dance, a function at last Roots follow an underground path Digging deeper to a softer spot To stop when rocks become obstructions In a place not of their making The leaf follows the laws of the land Encumbered only by the anchored tree Once freed it drifts away gladly Floats on an ocean of air to where? Cushioned by clouds demands Gravitating towards a softer landing Roots are jealous when a leaf escapes Waiting in silence for a mistake For time to fly when the crunching sound comes Signaling the end of that which was in flight Is that a bird gliding over the deceased? A tree reaches out to heaven with branches Raised like hands praying for rain Other leaves, fallen from grace. turn brown Swirl through the green grass at crunch time The critical hour is at hand