not so simple gifts

 if I were a tree,

     then I would like to be

          an apple tree,

               a giving tree

leaves a peaceful green,

     birds could sit and sing,

          people laugh and swing

                upon my branches

fruit a joyful red,

     the sun could rest its head,

         the hungry could be fed

               upon my apples

bark an earthy brown,

      roots deep in the ground,

          the weary could sit down

               against my trunk

my friend the gentle breeze

     could rustle through my leaves,

          refreshing all in need

               under my shade

I'd be strong and tall,

     give myself to all

          ‘til all my fruit was gone,

               a giving tree

though I would be bare,

     I would still be there

          reminding you I care,

               the giving tree

springtime would begin,

     and I would bloom again

          to be for you, my friend,

               your giving tree

- trevor scott barton, not so simple gifts, 2024