The Chokecherry Tree

Clayton Anderson Bell

Alone now, this magnificent tree,
Holds memories of slender boughs
Where we, as children played;
Parched mouths, stained.

Prairie symbol, berry pickers,
Pails hung on belts, sun hats,
Cherries clustered in bunches,
Pancake syrup, wine, jellies.

Standing silent, nature’s tree,
Birds nest, birds rest, and birds feed.
Fruit, dust covered and washed by rain;
Forgotten, standing alone.

Still, this childhood tree of
Laughter and friendship,
A providing tree, biding place;
Forever will be our tree.