The Backyard Tree

Jack Eastham
The Backyard Tree

That cool Tennessee morning air

Wafting the aroma of burning wood

A tall slender tree just going up in smoke

But also going down as a lifelong memory

I still see Dad chopping away at that old tree

Whenever I smell burning branches in the distance

Transporting me to a time so dear to my heart

Connecting me to moments I will cherish forever

A time when toys, holidays, and Grandma's house

Occupied the better part of my young world

When carefree was the day and calm the night

As I knew I was protected, guided, and loved

Strange how it is still so alive and present

Yet at the same time so dark and distant

With the power of a mere wish I am there

A half century ago and so many miles away

Somehow the little boy never leaves the man

We move from events to memories to dreams

All joined by a vibrant voice calling us back

Back to what grounds, shapes, and supports us

Published by Jack Eastham

Married to a wonderful girl for decades, running seven miles daily, and having taught high school and college for 28 years have brought me to a point in life at which I now like to reflect on all I have gain...  View profile

2 Comments

Post a Comment
  • Missy H.11/21/2007

    That's pretty. I could see the images as I read it.

  • Harriet Steinberg11/20/2007

    Keep those thoughts coming!!!!!You may want to read my poem "A Letter to my Sister who has Alzheimer's" by Hariet Steinberg

Displaying Comments

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.