My Conversation With A Tree Poem by Jim Yerman

Yesterday before the sun awoke as odd as this may be
I paused while I was walking to have a conversation with a tree.

Now you might think it crazy conversing with a tree
but, in my defense, it was the tree who first called out to me.

"I've seen you walk by for many years." (This tree conversing was a she!)
I think it's time we get to know each other…come…sit…and talk to me."

Before you think my craziness has gotten too pervasive
Let me tell you, right up front, …a tree can be persuasive.

We had a wonderful conversation and though we didn't always agree
I have to say I was impressed with the wisdom of the tree.

I asked her where her wisdom came from and as she swayed in the early morning breeze.
She said not only do her roots run deep but they connect with all the other trees.

She said, "I may look like I am one tree standing on my own
but being linked to all the other trees means I never stand alone.

"Which means, " she said, "you're not talking exclusively to me.
Since I am connected to all the others…I am more than just one tree."

And though she didn't come right out and say it
I'm sure the message was meant for me.
Her subtle way of saying humans should be a little more like trees.

As the first rays of the morning light began to shine on me
I smiled, told her I had to go…then turned and thanked the tree.

As I walked away I thought to myself…I'm not crazy but how lucky must I be
to think that I just sat down and had a conversation with a tree…

So I turned back to the tree…I smiled, waved, and to prove my sanity's intact…
That old tree not only waved to me…but I'm pretty sure she smiled back.