LIGHT IS NEVER FAR BEHIND
The tree spent its early years gathering strength,
growing wider, taller,
extending its roots deeper, further,
a firm foundation for the years to come,
then a storm struck,
a branch cracked and fell to earth,
the next year drought hit,
the tree lost leaves,
its branches grew spindly, withered,
an ice storm dealt the cruelest blow,
limbs fractured,
weighed down by winter’s cruel, unforgiving power,
yet the tree drew healing strength through its roots,
drawing in nurturing balms,
provided by rich, generous soil,
people who passed the tree,
commented on its architectural wonder,
its unusual visage,
not knowing what the tree had been through,
but the tree knew,
and so,
it grew its roots further, deeper,
into its vast underground network,
finding support, strength, nourishment,
for what life might bring,
worried, yet ready, weary, yet hopeful,
grateful for its roots and network
that sustained it through the toughest days,
reminding it that light is never far behind the darkness.
Photo by Susan DeGraaf
Just Poetry and Prose 
A true parable for the need of all living things to have a supportive network of support to survive in this world. Bravo!
What an inspiring ode to resiliency! Thank you, Rita, reminding us that we, too, can draw hope and strength from our own roots, networks and earlier losses to get through the challenges we are now facing.
Thank you! A network is so important for all living things. May we all be lucky enough to have one.
The magnificent tree in your poem inspires me to keep going deeper. We can survive and flourish this way. The photo nurtures my mind. I’d like to live under that tree!
Thanks! Susan captured this remarkable tree in all its nuanced perfection and imperfection. It truly mirrors the human experience.
Thank you, Rita, for your always inspiring, uplifting, and encouraging thoughts. Your sense of timing continues to be so relevant to and for me.
I neglected to sign-in when commenting just now but I’m hoping the algorithm will let you know it’s from me. xoxo