this small tree
kicked and trampled
fragile and scarred
a life just begun
a struggle to survive
hazy days
indigo nights
devoid of truth and light
frigid seasons past
come anew
tearing at flesh
as hope falls to leaves below
in that moment warmth reaches down
as this tattered soul
is taken up
by hands of grace
placed with tender care
beside a glistening brook
beneath the light
of a clear blue sky
planted in good soil
stretching out
nourished by the flow
consistent and true
branches reach skyward
relishing the light
the life that it brings
to waiting arms
easy days
unkind years
passing by as if the same
flourishing at the Master’s hand
names and hearts
etched in bark
giving gifts of shade
and food amongst leaves
gnarled and tired
the tree heaves
and sighs
beneath the weight of years
the Caretaker
peeling back layers
reveals character in the wood
that He alone created
cutting away
with sharpened blade
He forms a work of art
His masterpiece in you
~ elr
Image: ID 131023522 © Fresh Stock | Fotolia