Lessons of the Trees

When strong winds blow your heart around,
you’ve had all you can take,
then face the wind like the willow
that bends but doesn’t break.

When what you’ve done’s the best you can,
you know you gave your all,
then face the wind like the redwood
and stand up straight and tall.

When others make demands on you
to be someone you’re not,
then face the wind like the oak tree
with all the strength you’ve got.

Remember on those windy days,
“to thine ownself be true,”
for every walk through the woodlands
kicks up a nut or two.