Caught In The Rain At The Elder Tree

I was inspired to write this piece by a childhood memory of my favorite hideaway. Enjoy.

Oh Elder Tree, whose branches have seen many seasons,

 whose roots delve deeper into the Earth than any man's desires.

Tell me of past mistakes and retribution and the good intentions led astray....

I see the knicks and scrapes and scars in your armor, I know you have witnessed 

much. If only you could share with me your knowledge of time and diligence, I could

hope to avoid the trial and error phase, the betrayal of a lover, the fall further from 

grace....

Oh Elder Tree, how many have come to you for your guidance and solitude, leaving

ever so abruptly without so much as a second glance or a whisper of gratitude?...

How many times have your silent cries gone unanswered, the fruit of your labor stolen

in the night within the day; when the first taste of the morning sun came when it came, and

left in an instant, leaving your beautiful flowers to wilt and bring to the ground the highest

branches that would never again be able to reach the sky?...

Answer me, oh Elder Tree: for I came not in vain, only to visit a friend I cannot recall,

and sit with you through the rain....

Author's Note

Constructive criticism always welcomed.

Reviews

[Laura Lynn]

I see that the state motto of Alabama is Audemus jura nostra defendere "We dare to defend our rights" I wonder how this informs your writing or brings out themes.

This poem is so great; there is great feeling here and an expectation that the Elder will bring inestimable guidance or direction or provenance

[Christopher Norton]

I also find great beauty and peace in trees.