Simple, But Strong

One day I walked through a field

That was budding its springtime yield.

I saw in the distance, in the open glade,

Surrounded by newborn flowers of every shade,

A tree, great in stature, but gentle in form.

Its core made wise by many a storm.

In awe I approached this majestic old oak,

And then with a whisper it quietly spoke.

“Grow, my friend, for spring is here;

If your roots are in solid ground you have nothing to fear.”

Months past before I came this way again;

Summer had come, and with it the sun’s pain.

It was a joy to see that tree from afar;

To a weary traveler, few better sights there are.

As I rested from my journey beneath its branches,

The leaves seamed to whisper, no matter the chances.

“When pilgrims come, and the sojourner tires of the path so steep,      

Give them food and water and a place to sleep.

Treat the kindly, do them well, make them feel like a guest,

For you have been given much; the Lord has made you blessed.”

The leaves turned from green to gold, as time faded away.

Once more I traveled this path; Once more I crossed this way;

Once more I saw that old tree a short distance from me.

It was engulfed in simple splendor, colorful sea;

Leaves of gold, yellow, orange, and brown formed its robe.

This time there was no whisper but a shout; a proclamation around the glove!

“Give glory to God with all you possess:

This is not a time for recess.

Don’t be afraid to let your colors shine.

Give it your all, your heart, your soul, your strength, and your min(d).”

Winter had come, and the bustling brook turned to ice;

The storms raged and roared, the wind cut and dice.

This was my last journey for the year and the coldest by far.

There was the tree, striped of its leaves, full of winter’s scar.

Its words were simple, but strong, “Be prepared for winter,

And when it comes make sure that you are not made of tinder.

Stand strong though the wind begins to howl.

Sand strong though you think the whole world scowl.

Stand strong though heaven and earth are at war.

Stand strong, for spring will come once more.”

~ Derek Glatts