An Ancient Tree Stands Erect An ancient tree stands erect in a dense forest.
Its green leaves protrude from branches that shoot off the trunk,
Both high and low,
The tallest leaves seeming to almost graze the blue sky above.
The root of the old plant dig into the rich dirt in all directions,
Secure and grounded.
It would be an insult to assume that this particular tree has somehow sidestepped tragedy and fate,
The acts of the logger,
The howling winds are formidable storms,
Suffocating orange and ash,
A product of drought.
In its long reign as guardian of nature,
Protector and shelter,
The ancient tree has dug deep into the earth and withstood hurricane and thunderstorm.
The tree's hard outer bark has shielded against axe and saw,
The cuts serving as scars,
A reminder of the trials it once faced.
And even upon occasion,
The tall pine has been cloaked in ash,
Leaves smoldering and brown,
Deflecting the heat and fire that comes with the summer breeze.
The ancient tree is no stranger to the danger and abuse that are so present in the dark forest.
And as many of his closest friends and neighbors have fallen prey,
Too weak to fight against the forces that be,
The tree has stood strong,
Serving as a reminder that no matter the challenge,
Ignoring the odds,
One only has to look inward for strength.
So plant your feet firmly to the ground,
Reach your arms out in a defiant pose,
Breathe deep.
For within yourself is the power to fight,
To withstand,
To never give up,
And to always protect others,
No matter what tries to knock you down or saw you into.
