The Tree

When I look at a tree enchanted I am by grand height and width, luxurious foliage, plush branches on display – somewhat jealous of apparent supportive appeal, birds that sing and play in the sway, such vibrant array; their home, a natural sanctuary, perhaps an outdoor cathedral where they also pray? I recall a Psych-professor, making fun of me to the class, for the paper I wrote (suggesting that my dog was capable of love) – He, the professor, a man schooled entirely in animal instincts, proclaimed my pet's affection was not to be, in fact, the professor's own seldom example of compassion was my generous “C” back to my fascination with this tree: what lies beneath (a few above ground, but most of them unable to see) is a large community of roots: downward growth for firmness, nourishment and steadfast footing – a way to maintain lofty strength, entwined with earth, quite solidly, inseparably gnarled (seeming quite painfully bent) reminded I am of God, His arguably less than perfect, struggling man; thinking there must a system better, some more lenient, alternative, less punitive plan -- strict obedience to the bible for most human tastes appearing far too liable....