While I was Away

You stood tall and full of summer's grace,

Your presence brought many a smile to this old mans face.

Your beauty was exquisite and your charm filled the night air.

I was enraptured, enthralled and captivated by your flair.

Yet to my horror, and to my silent and woeful dismay,

While I was gone…while I was at work, someone stole you away.

They came into my life like a thief into a starry night,

And with hands so deft…they took your precious life.

I stand now in somber silence on the deck out beside my pool,

And I just stare into the open space not knowing what to do.

For there below…just a few feet away

Is the sad reminder of this new and appalling day.

I shiver with the mere thoughts of your sad demise,

As I with new clarity, view the full moon with teary eyes.

I look down to where you stood and spy a glimpse of your woeful remains

I see your broken limbs scattered all about the ground

I see the moon as it glistens amidst your clear life giving stains.

Yes…you once stood proud and tall…

But all it took was a few bucks and a tree cutter call.

Oh, woe is me…

For while I was at work….

Someone came and

 killed…murdered…annihilated

My beautiful tree.

J. Allen Wilson © 2005