TALKING LEAVES

Trees make the firm commitment
to be rooted where they stand…
digging in, drawing down
the taproot burrows underground
seeking moisture, sweet sustenance of life.
Growing closer to the core
the web of rootlets spreads
weaving beneath the obvious
in fragile fabric threads
a net for all creation.
Trees reach beneath the surface
seeking depth and fertile soil
absorbing with their roots
what nourishes the soul.
They seek the deep connection
with the breast of mother earth
and move through the circle of seasons
without complaint, sure of their worth.
They teach us to be flexible in youth,
to set a multitude of buds
to bend and yield to forceful wind
but yet, hold to our ground.
They teach us to be broad leafed
in adulthood, openminded,
using every surface to survive…
they teach us to go deep
so our crowns might reach the sky.
And in the fall of life,
they teach us not to care too much,
prompt us finally, to dare
to show our brilliance, colors true
and then in faith
to set our leaves upon the wind
before our cycle starts again.
Once we've given all to the beyond,
the winter of our life begins its song.
We dig in,
return to Earth--
we recognize the beauty of bare bones,
comprehend the music of the stars…
piercing the black velvet dark of night
with startling melody, laughter and light.
The joy travels swiftly deep into the root
and spreads through root webs underground
sending heavenly music through
Earth's fabric of color and sound.
Yes, trees stand rooted, firm
silent teachers at the center,
sacred instruments mediating exchange
between pulse of earth
and the primal dance of stars,
receiving the universal light,
they spread understanding,
encourage what is right.
If we listen, we can hear
creation's sermon loud and clear
delivered by Earth's minister, the tree
breathing love into eternity.