ode to our beloved catulpa by laura cohen

Looking out the window
to you that survives it all.
The iciest of queens can’t bring you down.

Your injury - our testament
broken limbs, new life formed
L Squared Ranch – the landmark of another time.

The seasons change – babies become girls.
You, a wooden anchor soaring tall
your trunk, bent
not broken
roots dance deep below
reminding
that all is not lost. 
 
Long arms wrap around
all who rest
seconds, minutes - a respite
breathe in, breathe out
go back
go forward
go on.
 
Your outstretched arms
mark precious milestones.
Moments of time, etched forever;
Click - grade 1
Click - graduations
Click - goodbye
new traditions rooted underneath your green.
 
Nature’s goddess
you triumph
when everything else
burns in the rubble -
you still stand – a miracle.