Splinter

I walked around Peters Hill early on the morning of wind and rain, before the strongest part of it was overhead. Even before dawn, I could see - almost feel - the high limbs waving wildly, wind becoming visible. Audible as well - loud, throaty roars through trees not ready to bow much less break in surrender. That came later.

The next morning, I was shocked to see a huge red oak fallen. Somehow i had assumed that all was well because it was so when I walked by early the day before. That’s not how it works.

I could see this tree has been ailing for a while. That doesn’t change my feelings of loss. So many trees were broken, uprooted, damaged and yet this was one I knew. I remember when a major limb was cut off some time back, a sign that all was not well.

This is a loss - seeing that even grain, smelling the tannin, it is clear that, for this tree, it’s over. I’ll miss walking by it. I don’t know what happens to people after death much less trees. Maybe it’s simpler for trees: maybe its remains will be put to good use. I sure hope so!