NaPM April 04, 2017

[Tracy Mitchell]

Birch Trees

I think the birch tree knew
as its leaves fell for the last time
when sap ceased to complete its trek
and rot overwhelmed the trunk

I think the birch tree knew
when it would surrender its place
topple to the edge of the pond
and prop at such an angle

from which a wind might find its way,
to see this white line cantilevered
to perfect angle with its own reflection,
a sight as breathtaking as God could make,
or as nature could do on its own.

You would like birch trees -
this is the world they always choose.