You…

Surely you’ve become more beautiful as you’ve aged
Rich golden browns goldening more with each day
Every wrinkle, every line bringing wisdom that can not be gauged
Roots and branches curving and straightening in just the right way

How many others have stopped to admire you here
All tensions of the day soften upon stumbling across you
The world is a better place just by you doing what you do 

Have native Paiute people gathered with you when contemplating the gravest of decisions
Were you the wise elder they respected for your thoughts and your visions
Seeking enlightenment to answers only gifted through time
One look from you reassuring that all things will be fine 

How many deer have leaned on you to provide much needed shade
Have generations of eagles sought you out because your branches do not cave
Your beauty your purpose surely striking even on the darkest of days
Rooted so deeply to your beliefs on this rocky ledge
Withstanding cold, wind, and fire. Confident they are all just a phase 

Will we be the unfortunate ones that bring you to you knees?
Thru climate drought driven fires that rob life from even the strongest of trees 
I admire you now and surely those words will not come true
For we will be humbled by your existence and change what we do 
_________
near Walker Lake, Eastern Sierras, Ca