The Elder Tree

There are stories from long before earth came to be,
Of a nation of beings whose spirits flew free.
Wars were unknown there, they all lived in peace.
They’re here on our planet disguised as our trees.

They knew we’d be frightened by an alien face
So they chose this form to fit into our place.
Majestically cloaked in the brightest of clothes:
Of emerald green leaves on mahogany boughs.

To a soul lost in slumber and stumbling along,
These beings are nothing compared to the throng
Of humans who see only what they can use;
No remorse in their hearts for their wanton abuse.

Here in the forest where faerie folk dwell
Is a tree of great import with stories to tell.
Though he towers above us, he’s gentle and kind;
No better protector on earth will you find.

In time all will read of this beautiful soul,
Come to remind us we’re part of the whole.
I’m honoured he’s made me part of His Tribe,
A human entrusted to act as His Scribe.

So join me in learning of all he has seen,
The beings he’s met and the places he’s been.
When you are finished I know you’ll agree
There’s nothing as grand as the life of a tree.
© S. A. Beal
29th October, 2012