One Oak Leaf

Walking in the freezing wind after our yard was mulched, I looked over the wall and saw this one stubborn oak leaf standing tall. Just one. It had holes that allowed me to see rays of sun. This photo was taken after many trips outdoors with my dog, and the leaf is still there. The wind chimes are ringing in December, yet the one leaf stands. What is he/she saying?

Here’s what I heard.

“Humans, you give up too easily when the winds of change, turmoil, and danger get close. What will you do when all your friends leave you—lay down and die crying how unfair life is? You must be thankful for yesterdays and prepare for tomorrows yet imagined. Be the person still standing and let the wind, rain, snow carry you away. No one lives forever, and you live longer than us poor leaves on the lovely autumn trees. It’s time to hibernate and plant seeds for the spring thaw. My benefactor oak tree planted leaves everywhere to protect the grass and flower seeds, not just oak seeds. Stand tall and be happy for me. Thanks for seeing me out here. Don’t expect me to stay long though. The snow is on the way. I love to feel the flakes!”

Actually I thought about bringing the leaf in the house, but I knew better. May this oak leaf be free. May we stand tall and persevere.

One Leaf Lesson

Poetry lovers among us will remember this famous poem? I’m a long-time Tennyson fan.

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The Oak

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Live thy Life,

Young and old,

Like yon oak,

Bright in spring,

Living gold;

Summer-rich

Then; and then

Autumn-changed

Soberer-hued

Gold again.

All his leaves

Fall’n at length,

Look, he stands,

Trunk and bough

Naked strength.

(This poem is in the public domain.)