Member-only story
About the Nature of Things
The gnarled sycamore tree stands tall and resolute, overseeing the comings and goings of his domain.
His roots, like fingers, dig deep into Mother Earth to anchor him against life’s occurrences.
He has withstood the downpours, the blizzards, the droughts, and still he has remained here in this very spot over the decades.
His arching and spreading branches have given refuge to generations of species of birds, like the noisy Carolina wren and the joyful red-breasted robin, who have made the decision to use his sturdy branches to raise their young.
The gray squirrels leap and play tag among the outstretched arms of the tree that reach up toward the azure blue sky.
Standing in the mid-day rays of sunlight, the stout trunk of the tree with its shades of white, tan, and gray, stands out among the other neighboring green vegetation… its uniqueness is on parade.
What tales this great old tree might tell if only we stand quietly and place our hand upon his mottled trunk… stories of hardship, sorrow, love, and hope from all who have passed under the shade of his canopy.
It is the wonder of the nature of things.
