The forgiveness of the tree

The forgiveness of the tree

I look up through your branches 
trying to see how many shades of green you have
- but I can't

Your colors draw me to you 
because you are so beautiful and secure
- yet so painfully vulnerable

It takes twenty seconds to fell you 
the sigh that goes through the forest when you fall says
- whose turn is it now?

Your growth rings tell how old you are 
and your proud crown lies back and rots
- I need you to warm me up, can you understand that?

I don't think you do, 
because I am not good to you 
why is it okay to take ten - and not thousands 
- I only take what I need

I just want to get warm 
and have a house to live in

I go in search of my roots
roots are all you have left 
should I laugh or cry about this?

This search has become so exciting
for those of us who chop today.

Berit Haga
2003 / 2023