***A tribute to sister Ray
Starting young, she plants her roots into the shallow surface of the organic soil. It doesn't take long for her to feel steady, stable. The perfect combination of water and sunlight provide her with that little bit of energy she needs to grow. With each passing day, she stands a little taller. Her leaves radiate shades that are greener. She reflects in a moment of solitude. Standing quietly, she listens to the rhythm of the wind as it whistles through her branches. She smiles. Her smile enough to light up even the darkest of skies. This light ignites in her a new found confidence. A confidence that when the summer fades to fall, and the last of her leaves trickle to the forest floor, she feels ready to let them go.
The temperature cools and the sky dims. Floating whimsically through the air, the first snowflake reminds her that winter has come. Her leaves, buried.
Time does pass and the clouds eventually break. Winter says hello to the anxiously awaiting spring. The sun, it speaks to her. Its rays shine through the sky, warming her feet until finally the last little bit of white has gone. Revealed beneath her are various shades of mottled browns and tans. Her leaves, they have become the very soil from which she grew. Full circle.
It is on this day, and in that moment of realization, that the world became hers for the taking.
You are the roots that have grounded me.
You are my trunk. Your steady heart and stable hands have kept me standing tall and have provided me with strength in my every day.
You are my leaves. Your fruitful spirit has given me color, laughter and so much happiness.
You are my right hand. You're my other half. My second heart.