BRANCHES AND ROOTS

I would like to share two short pieces about trees that can bring hope in the midst of despair.

by lekkyjustdoit freedigitalphotos.net

THE BIRD ON THE BRANCH

As a tired bird rested on a branch, he looked out and enjoyed the view. But then a strong wind blew, swaying the branch back and forth. The force threatened to break the branch; however, the bird was not afraid. He knew that even without the branch beneath him, he could fly to another branch where he could again find rest and safety.
THE OAK TREE

by Johnny Ray Ryder, Jr.

A mighty wind blew night and day
It stole the oak tree’s leaves away
Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark
Until the oak was tired and stark

But still the oak tree held its ground
While other trees fell all around
The weary wind gave up and spoke.
How can you still be standing Oak?

The oak tree said, I know that you
Can break each branch of mine in two
Carry every leaf away
Shake my limbs, and make me sway

But I have roots stretched in the earth
Growing stronger since my birth
You’ll never touch them, for you see
They are the deepest part of me

Until today, I wasn’t sure
Of just how much I could endure
But now I’ve found, with thanks to you
I’m stronger than I ever knew