by Doreen Anderson
As a young sapling
my roots were defective
not providing the nutrients
required for optimal growth
But the Farmer
in His infinite wisdom
grafted me
onto new and healthy roots
Now with needed minerals
flowing through my roots
and with fertile soil
keeping me grounded
With raindrops to refresh me
and rays of the sun
to warm me
I grew to be tall and magnificent
providing shelter and shade
blossoms and fruit
for those who passed my way
But the storms of life
they buffeted me
bending me this way and that
My trunk still bears the gash
of a lightning strike
that nearly killed me
During the winters and storms
my sap withdrew and sank
but with the coming of spring
it rose again
renewing
every inch of my being
I’m an old apple tree now
standing alone
where once was a bountiful orchard
My limbs
once straight and strong
have become
increasingly gnarled and weak
Still I provide
blossoms and fruit
Birds still nest
within my branches
Young lovers
still rest in my shade
and carve their initials
in my trunk
The Farmer
still takes care of me
watching over me
with love
