Growing wild and living free. Each day reaching to Father Sun, Gathering light till day is done. The gifts are many I give to all – Living creatures, great and small. Tiny bugs crawl to scavenge my bark, Some by day, some in the dark. Bear shows up to sharpen his claws, Careful, Bear, my skin you’ll maul! He scratches his back, leaning on me, Must feel good to shake up the fleas! A golden honeycomb might be found, In branches where it’s tightly bound. All kinds of birds come to build their nests; A place for new life and a place to rest. They sing to me their lovely songs, One at a time or in great throngs. Moss is seen at my earthy base, Nature’s gift of delicate lace. Ivy grows in a swirl of vines, Creeping gently up my spine. Mighty branches reach up to the sky – Great for climbing if you’re young and spry! Clothed in leaves of beautiful hues; The color depends on the season you choose. Offering shade in summer’s heat, The animals come to cool and meet. At night there’s work, cleaning the air, Releasing oxygen with quiet flair. Standing alone or in a forest expanse, Where in the wind we seem to dance. No human problems, no mortal cares, I stand tall and proud, putting on no airs. Although I need nourished, what I give back is free. Give me a hug and appreciate me! |








