The Withered Tree Spake

"The withered tree spake" Battered and bruised - yet I stand, firmly rooted deep down; seasons have gone by - blowing hot and cold, yet, I live without a frown! Leaves go dry - they shed off and fly, 'nay me' - the firm trunk I am! Here to stay - with a dig in the heels, showing character none can fathom! Ants crawl up and so do the bugs and I do see a Pecker; They huddle-up to nest - and some do rest, 'hey there' - 'you are a home maker'! In time they lay - then cuddle-up on it, 'eureka', the eggs that crack; Hairless and shrivelled - they feast on the crawlers,   also learning life's nuances and knack! Autumn draws the Spring - covers me to the brims, thus the change of colour; Lived long enough - knowing change alone as constant, I behold my crest in valour! Every moment is new - all uncertain, around me and in me life adrift; I've come to terms - acceded to the norms, that truth is never to shift! Travails of time, has its way, to wail and warn you from a collision head long; May peace prevail with calm and poise, will rightfully go back to where we all belong!