The Oak Tree Speaks

Do not disturb the soil beneath my feet

For I have stood a century and more,

Above man's traffic and his noise I greet

All passing souls within my shade's retreat.

Do not pollute the air my leaves intake

Or cloud the sun with choking noxious fumes

I breathe your waste, the air you need I make,

His radiant light my consciousness illumes.

Tread lightly on the earth thyself aware

My gift of life a glory to behold,

Trees in bloom are beautiful, more fair –

I stand a symbol of the strong and bold.

Beside me sit awhile, my strength is thine,

Feel the breath of God within my limbs,

I know myself a part of His design

For through my sap there flows the force divine.