Proximity and wind have conspired
to wed them this way.
One upright, deep roots reaching out,
_______boasting
a full green canopy.
The other bent and leaning,
_______upper branches hunched, with only
a few leaves to show for itself.
This marriage –
_______an awkward dip and pose.
Gust and gale carry the scent of change.
Bark and pith twist,
growth rings
______________widen.
_______Lightning
______strikes.
And slowly, free of shadow, with nothing
to rely on, the bent one
_______steadies.
Just-budding branches embrace, hold up
_______the near-felled.
Still rooted – they sway.
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