A slender sapling
Rustles in the gentle spring breeze
Reaching down into the earth
With its roots
And stretching skywards
With its young, strong limbs
Growing
Vibrant
Alive

A mature tree
Stands in the summer warmth
Sturdy and proud in the fullness
Of mature strength
And at the crest of
Its power and grace
Beautiful
Mature
Strong

A tall tree
Sways in the fall gusts
Celebrating with leaves of multi-colors
Dropping fruits and seeds
Spreading, arching outward
Seeding and protecting the land
Fertilizing
Aware
Stalwart

An ancient tree
Shivers, denuded, in winter's chill storm
Holding tightly to the ground
With gnarled roots
Its branches twisted with age
Drawn in upon itself
Resting
Ancient
Wise