THE INJURED TREE

High on a hill a bent plum tree

Lies half prone, though it started free,

A lightening bolt or a vagrant board,

Bowed it low where the damage scored.

Its neighbors proud, stately and prim

Tower above with their branches trim.

Yet a special charm catches the eye

As that lowly branch its leaves held high.

Summer will pass and a message tell,

That a child can reach its fruit so well,

A sturdy bole – a fine seat make

And handy for rest as its fruit we take.

A mishap when young, still its branches are trim.

And bring us its fruit from deep wisdom within.

Sharing its beauty and service free,

A beautiful message, like that injured tree.

The message to all, soft breezes will tell,

Its sturdy root has nourished it well,

The sun and the rain no favorites show,

As nestling birds dance in the evening glow.

No need to feel old, tired or bent,

To practice on Earth, you asked to be sent,

To learn and to grow and helping another,

Those in your ken, for all men are brothers.

God sent us His son, an example to see,

How to put into practice a happiness tree,

How to live His example - the Golden rule shows

Accepting - with practice, your soul self can grow.