Willow

when I was small

my favorite part of walking down the street

was every time I looked up

something warm was looking down at me

and you towered over me

arms reaching down like the leaves of a willow tree

every spring, the roads were slippery

and even now, I can hear you tell me

“Squeeze my hand, I won’t let you fall”

my willow tree, so strong and tall

Summer came for me too quickly

and the weight of adolescence pulled my head down

no longer did I look up

or care what I might see

but looking back, I’m remembering

you were there, my willow tree

Autumn winds took their toll

and stood above you laying down

life shook up your rightful role

and music just became a sound

Winter put you in the ground

still, I held fast to our old ways

I look up, and see your face

there in the trees above your grave

you’re still here with me

always my willow tree; so tall

except now it seems

looking up at your leave’s canopy

has never made me feel so small