Splinter

A tree ever so strong stands alone,
Protection is it's own task.
Each passing day a new foe.
Branches broken while young,
Bark torn off in rage.
Protection from it all cannot be done.
A refreshing rain from the storm,
Followed by lightning through the heart.

A tree lives on,
Broken and weeping,
Aching and splintered.

A tree ever so strong stands alone,
Guarding itself from the pain.
Another day another foe.
Disease and parasites eating away,
Bark charred by flame.
A cool breeze through the leaves so high,
Limbs torn away with angry gusts.

A tree lives on,
Broken and weeping,
Aching and splintered.

A tree ever so strong stands alone,
Never safe from the world.
Another day an enemy attacks.
Whittling away the edges,
Chipping away the shield.
A moment of serene tranquility,
A deafening crash to the ground.