Here

I am here,

Even when you don’t see me.

Passing time -

An oak tree rooted in the ground,

Surrounded by smiling children

Or scurrying adults.

Never alone,

Always alone.

Watching,

Waiting,

Praying.

Quiet in my solitude

With branches waving,

Leaves rustling

Through wind,

Through rain,

Scorching sunshine,

And inner pain.

Still watching,

Still waiting,

Still praying

To be remembered.

Even when you don’t see me,

I am here.

Please, please don’t forget me

Because the ground

Keeps pulling me down

And I need to have a reason

To wave my branches,

Rustle my leaves,

And rise into sunlight.

I hope you know,

I hope you care,

I hope you think of me sometimes.

Lonely in my solitude -

Being pulled down, down . . .

Storm weathered,

Gravity burdened,

Bending to submission,

Needing to be needed.

Still watching,

Still praying,

Still reaching.

I wait for you

Here.