Prepare thyself, oh Dogwood for your first winter’s onslaught.

Let your leaves turn to ruby and float away for they have had the life they sought.

Stand tall and naked and weather the snow, rain and cold of night.

Be ready for soon you will come to see spring fading into sight.

The leaves that left in the autumn will then be replaced with leaves anew.

And I will applaud the blossoms which will come to color you.

Let not the winter bother you, let not the cold bring you down.

Spring will come and you will then be dressed in a beautiful white bridal gown.

Reach for the sun with limbs that are bare and glory in its glow.

You will find you can stand quite proud as they are covered by the coming of the snow.