-- The Almond Tree Speaks --

by John Herlihy

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I wonder, if a tree could speak, what would it say,

Of the sun, moon and stars, and all the birds at play.

A tree’s life and well-being down from heaven sent,

Its prayerful aspirations found in uplifted limbs bent.

The sum of a tree’s life adds centuries to the hour,

The wind passes thru a tree, respectful of its power.

The tree’s protective awning invites birds to build a nest,

Birds fly free, but return to the tree to take their rest.

Standing as if on pedestal, bedecked in summer green,

In winter standing skeletal, stripped naked and mean.

Even the birds of summer all to the south have fled,

Forlorn, with its limbs empty-handed, its heart bled.

In autumn, approaching winter brings a tree to its knees,

The crimson-orange-golden leaves fly freely in the breeze.

Bravely waiting out winter as harsh freezing winds blow,

Standing like an expectant bride, dressed in a gown of snow.

If a tree could see itself in a mirror, it would feel proud,

God in compassion and mercy, this beautiful life allowed.

Speak to me of God, I once asked the almond tree,

In reply, the almost tree blossomed, God’s glory to see.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 3 December 2023