Cumberland Crown

I live in a forest on an island.

My arching branches reach out, down and up.

We enjoy our solitude,

Draping Spanish moss makes it's home on my branches

And sways with a breeze.

The ocean reaches out grasping at my arms

The wetlands protect me

And in my shade wild horses rest.

Masked bandits pass in the night

In search of food.

An armored creature cautiously meanders

Below my low hanging branches.

I hear the tapping of a woodpecker

On a distant tree.

Mankind comes and walks the pathways

That I line

And our canopy gives them shade.

I have stood here forever and my

Arms are weary.

The stories I have been a witness to

Are endless.

I will be here till the strong wind

And the driving rain and the encroaching

Tides pull me from my home and I return to the earth.