Submitted by
Teresa Smith.
If I Were A Cedar Tree
If I were a cedar tree I would sway in the wind, bend but not break. I would be aware of the moment and nothing more.
If I were a cedar tree I would watch the world change. More generations than I can count.
If I were a cedar tree I would never be alone. I would be mother and life force. From bald eagle to tiny microorganisms that live under bark. Lichen and moss, mama fox and kits live in hole under root, woodpeckers gorging on supper, junco’s and wood hatches flitting to safety. I would give shelter and safety, sustenance and perch.
Wise woman would cherish my wisdom and see the spirit within me. I would have seen settlers come and cut down brothers and sisters. Yet, I would not wake in the night and worry. Things would be simple.
If I were a cedar tree I would welcome back the salmon that spawn then became fry then swam out to sea. I would watch as the sea gulls, eagles and bear come and feed after the next generation has been laid.
If I were a cedar tree I would hear the whispers in the dark of night. No one would know I was there.
If I were a cedar tree I would stand proud for artists with their easels and paint. I would display my beautiful sweeping branches, massive trunk and flecks of red and gold and rust within the thousands of shades of green in my boughs.
I would stand tall and calm as children climb on me and parents teach.
If I were a cedar tree I would be whole, neither happy nor sad, but at peace with my life as it is. I would live among my brothers and sisters many hundreds of years we would be. I would be strong and steadfast as those around me.
If I were a cedar tree I would be whole. I would not be bothered by the judgment of others. I would stand in peace. I would not judge.
If I were a cedar tree I would not plan for my future nor fret over my past. I would notice the caw of the crow and the nip in the air.
If I were a cedar tree I would stand tall in grace.
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