The tree stood

naked in the sunlight

clustered around other trees

silent and bare.

A gust of wind

shook its leafless limbs

reaching to the sky.

It was uniquely alone,

yet part of many

shivering in the

bleak November cold.

It had seen the seasons of life

slip by slowly.

Now weary with waiting

it sighed with surprise

at the warmth

of the Creator’s love

renewing its tired trunk.

Mingling with the sound of rustling leaves

sitting at its feet, it said,

“I’m free to be me.”