The Interview

THE INTERVIEWER: Thank you for the privilege of this interview. There are hundreds of others you could have chosen. I am deeply moved and inspired by how you have come to terms with your demise. We all must someday face our death, but far too few of us learn to do it well. Of your many years, what do you feel that you have contributed most to society and especially your community? The INTERVIEWEE: Before answering, I must say that it is my hope that when I have deceased, I won't be allowed to remain standing as a lifeless statue. May I be cut down and utilized as wood for warmth or lumber for buildings. I trust that I have contributed to an atmosphere of trust; The freedom that any person of any stripe can come and sit right up to my trunk, benefiting from my shade and the purity of air and say anything they which, never having to worry if it will ever be repeated again. The INTERVIEWER: Many of us give much thought to longevity with little concern about legacy. You have enjoyed a long life and have produced much fruit so vital in the nuts industry. Over the years, you have grown the most tasteful and nutritious pecans. Initially, you referenced being made useful after your demise. What do you have further to say about yourself relative to legacy? The INTERVIEWEE: As a tree, I have been aware of every leaf that fell and blew across the landscape; of every limb broken from me for any purpose by any person or by the wind; of every seed that fell to the ground. Being thus aware, I think that I treasure most the seeds that fell, knowing that They represent not the end of me but a new beginning. That is why I pray that each seed that falls will somehow find its way and beat a path to the right soil and depth that will give them a fighting chance at life. Both they and I know that they are fighting for me and my legacy. That is the primary reason my friend that I am able to die well and peacefully. THE INTERVIEWER: Thank you, sir. Our readers will be pleased to hear what you had to say. 060923PSCtest. Anthony Biaanco. Contest Name: Interview Theme choice: Interview with a dying tree