The Sentinel

One lone tree standing sentinel over the grassy field; patches of weeds stealing ground with dandelions intermingled, their bright, cheery color lessening their thievery. The splotched, motley colors of leather-skin disguises the barren ground where cows trod, making a maze of trails. The tree's shadow meets its restraints, as it gives refuge to all that draws near. Birds rest in the branches. Rabbits nibble clover. Then, with full stomach, they hop off to the thicket beside the fence, the fence that frames the field where one lone tree stands sentinel.