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....
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