The Tree

The tree was magnificent in all its green glory Its limbs spread proud and true Beautifully shaped and full of new growth It stood tall against the blue. Many a child it had seen evolve In the seventy years in the yard. Silently there but always aware Some years were particularly hard. The summer of 64 was the year When the teenage boy ran away The mother spent many a day in the shade As the tree kept the sadness away. 82 was the year of the storm When the tornado threatened its world But the tree stood firm and survived the blow Of the wind as it turned and swirled. 1994 was especially hard When the collie named Shep had died. Now buried below the tree by the rock It watched as the young girl cried. The wedding was beautiful all in white As the daughter became a bride. Out in the yard, under the old oak tree Even the father cried. The rocking chairs now sit on the porch As the age of the parents shows. The old oak tree looks worse for wear But a new young tree seedling grows.