A NOBLE TREE

So much a symbol,
Its life in nature
Often blurred,
The bark and branches,
Leaves and roots
Recede, surrendering
To its renowned as a noble tree.

Sacred to all who see it,
The basics of its history overwhelmed,
Causing awe and speechless wonder.
The magnificent, ancient tree,
Sadly bent at last,
Unable to stand against the storm.

Three hundred years
Of rings record times of
Growth and plenty,
Draught and saving showers,
Whispering dew and silent breezes.

All gone

The farm will continue.
The farmer will mow and plow.
Yet,
Never the same
Without the signature presence.

Gone.

The Chestnut Oak.

Charlene James-Duguid
- Amissville, Virginia, June 23, 2018 -

This historic Chestnut Oak Tree fell in June 2018.