The Splintered Cherry

By Britt Stoudenmire

 A cherry tree was born in a beautiful field;

Sitting all alone at the top of the hill.

He weathered many storms as day passed to night;

No wind too big he could not fight.

And as he grew taller he witnessed many things;

But nothing more special than song birds in spring.

Then one day the pine trees were planted in;

And he seemed lost in the darkened den.

After many years God spoke to a man;

And not long after he had his view again.

With his view came more strong winds;

And with weakened roots he seemed near the end.

But when his limbs splintered God held him tight;

And to this day he stands tall in plain sight.

A reminder to all that have come and gone;

That heaven truly is our final home.

Dedicated to James Riley, Jr

August 8th 1950 – August 24th 2020