Sacred Trees

In my search of rest, I often find solace in trees.  I find comfort in their sturdy trunks and the variations of their bark – molted gray-green, bumpy brown, spectacular white.  Their branches reach high to the heaven and bend with the wind.  They hold homes for squirrels, birds, bugs, and other creatures.  They decorate themselves with fruits and flowers; frost and dewdrops. Their leaves magically change from green to autumns golds and reds. Trees were often my fortress growing up in the suburbs.  We climbed them, made crude treehouses, and established mighty fortress at their bases.  Trees provided me with a creative space in which to feel secure.

For ye shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace;

 the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing,

and all the trees of the field shall cap their hands.

Isaiah 55:12

Backyard Crab Apple Tree

Home place,
Beautiful blossoming tree,
Tiny sour apples,
No good for eating,
But wonderful ammunition
Against neighborhood enemies.
And lovely poison
For an imaginary brew or stew.
Low branches,
Thick and sturdy,
Make for quick climbing
Into the belly of the leaves,
Up to the top,
Quiet, hiding.
Don’t let the enemy below
Know where we are…
Shhhh… our secrets are safe
Within our crab apple fortress,
Do not disturb!



Weeping Willow Tree

Willow tree –
Spreading spring green
interlocking chains
of lacy leaves.
Protecting me,
Hiding me away.
A safe place
Of agile branches
Bending over
My broken spirit,
Enveloping me in a warm hug,
Providing quiet comfort,
Healing my child-grief,
Giving me hope,
Providing harmony
Within your supple branches.
Encouraging me to renew,
Grow stronger and bolder.
Willow, you hold out hope,
Make me feel like I belong
Within your nimble branches,
Reminding me to be
Resilient to change.