SEQUOIA

The old tree finally died
22 feet in diameter
2000 years old

a mighty giant
holding the wisdom of ages
towering gracefully
over its verdant domain

people spoke in hushed tones
to view it was to witness creation itself
how could you not show reverence
in the presence of such a godly tree

and yet it came crashing down
in a violent storm was toppled by the wind
fallen to earth like a mighty warrior
its legend shattered on the ground
the crack of its fall
sent echos across the valley

now we have a less beautiful world
and tears roll down
for we have lost a friend
who gave us gifts of strength
and perseverance

in hopefulness
new sprouts will emerge
from still bruised roots
another giant will come
to take its place
to inspire us lowly men
to reach for more

we look up
and marvel at these ancient trees
who almost brush the moon
with outreached arms they embrace the sky
give us hope we can survive

mere men made small
by rugged giants reach and width
we question how it is
such mighty trees as this
withstand the test of time
and still persist
that in this ever maddening world
even now exist.



© d.knape
January 24, 2017

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Related Topic: Texas Historic Trees