The Old Tree

There is an old tree that stands as a giant in our back yard.

This tree stood tall on this land years before we built our home.

I am thankful to the stranger that planted it.

This giant sleeps through the winter winds and comes back to life each year.

In the spring its branches hold the homes of many small creatures.

Years gone by, the roots doubled as hidden recesses for plastic Easter eggs.

This majestic tree still provides cool refreshing shade during the hot days of summer.

A tire swing once hung from the mighty branches.

Over the years it has shaded childhood swings and dog houses.

Its far reaching “arms” protected the tree house my father built for his grandchildren.

A trampoline, placed under its glory, allowed young boys to bounce up into the branches.

This tree stood strong as young boys practiced their bravery and rose as high as they dared.

This tree is a sugar maple tree and currently showers us with amazing colors in the fall.

The leaves piled upon the ground beckoned young boys to plow through them.

The greatest treasure, this tree holds, is the sweetness of life.

Embedded deep in the bark of this tree is the laughter of my children.

I never imagined this tree would grow to mean so much to me.

After each storm, I check to see how the tree fared.

Each spring, I rejoice to see the new growth return.

For now this tree stands in all of her beauty, and continues to hold my memories among her leaves.

Debra Reagan 2012