For a dear friend who suggested there was a poem in this photo. This old tree sits a block over next to a small stream along the fence line of the coal rail yard. When I’m feeling stressed or sad or frustrated I walk my little dog by this tree. I don’t deserve such an amazing gift. The Lady of the Pine, as I like to call her, must know I need her.

Lady of the Pines

mantle of lush green

peering from the wounded

hollow of a great old tree

here to greet all passers by

weary from the fray, offering

hope and gentle healing

on this cloudy day

what say you oh gentle lady

to our troubled hearts

in a world fraught with hate

fractured families, torn apart

tenderly your intercessions

whisper on the breeze

soon the autumn frost will

kiss your rosary of leaves

sending them a-fluttering

to drape your tender feet

ever faithful you’ll remain

until next time we meet

~kat