Trees

This afternoon I posted a photo of some trees agains the twilight sky. It was a rather lovely picture in my opinion, and several of my friends agreed according to their comments and likes on Facebook. It got me thinking about how much I enjoy snapping a good photo, a nature photo in particular. I decided to take a scroll through the various photos on my phone, as this is the best and really the only camera I have, and I discovered something. Many of my photos are of trees. I really like taking photos of trees, especially against the sky. It must be something about the blues and greens, two of my favorite colors. And it doesn't seem to matter what time of day it is. I like the shadows and shades created later in the day, and the brightness and vibrance when the sun is high in the sky. Here are some of my favorites. I'm going to post a part 2 to this post tomorrow. I've honored the trees in the photos with accompanying verses. Enjoy!

I.

I cannot elude death

but I will not go so easily,

my service on earth not yet complete.

Here I stand no longer verdant

Life still perched upon me.

II.

Let us be a guide.

Use us not as a lens to watch

but as a gateway to all that is possible,

coastal breezes, blue skies, and the salty sea.

Kick off your sandals, sling them over your shoulder

and run your toes though the sun-toasted sand.

III.

The road less travelled by some

and often by others

shaded lovingly by cypress and palms

leaning in like marathon supporters

offering instead of water, oxygen and shelter

from the hot summer sun.

IV.

My favorite view of a tree is looking up

laying flat on my back, peering up at the sky

feeling tiny and low to the ground

bigger than most creatures who find their way up

but powerless to join them amongst the clouds.

V.

Nature's awe 

The warm hues of the sun

The tall thin lines of the trees

I breathe deep, in then out, in then out

mindful of the gifts, grateful for their beauty.