Tree

I’m falling on to the damp earth Parted from your branches One by one. It was one by one That I became a part of you And now you shed me unsympathetically. It’s in your nature I know. But I’m lifeless, Without your tender bows, Holding on to me dearly. And as I fall, One by one, You watch me grow paler, And more brittle. But you stand strong. And empty. And though I made you beautiful, And gave you the hues of the sun. You shed me still. I do not know if I shall be born again Or another shall take my place. Only Spring will tell.