The Christ Tree Twists

 

I love how the dogwood

bends~

following its own lead

turning to the whispers

of the laurel, oak and ivy

as they mingle in the woods.

Outside my window

a great white lady

readies herself to bloom

sap rising 

ripening her tight buds ~

the warm spring sun

seducing her to burst forth

in lacy splendor.

Christ's blossoms,

cross shaped petals

tinged as though with sacred blood

they say ~

and in each center

there his crown.

I do not think

sweet Jesus hung

upon a dogwood

yet we yearn for mystic symbols

connections ~

wherever they might be

organic matter

to fertilize our faith.

Even in a tree ~ poor tree ~

just wanting to twist and turn

and share its beauty

with the sun

while all it asks of us

is the deep breath ~

the aah!

and silent yes

acknowledging its gift

so simple ~ so magnificent.                              

 Joanne Cucinello     ©2008