scales one side

of the highest hill

holding fast with roots

not plunging so deep.

A standout in a sea of green

from spruce to willow

and poplar to a few scattered

cedar. It is more than

a fist of iron in

its demeanor

like moose in a forest

stalwart and independent.

Then someone came

and cut it down

a hiker cold and alone

chopped it into

pieces of kindling. Now feel

its fireball of warmth.

(c) 2017 Richard L. Provencher

Richard enjoys writing poems; many of which have been published in Print and Online. He and his wife, Esther are also co-authors of stories and a print novel. They are "born again" Christians and very busy in their church, Abundant Life Victory International, in Bible Hill, Nova Scotia.