Tree

This tall, towering tree

rising well over the power lines.

Nearly all the limbs growing straight up and strong

But one solitary, equally strong limb protrudes sideways

sharply towards the right

only eight feet from the ground.

While I don’t need to, even I consider bending to avoid hitting my head.

I ponder what caused this unique turn of this particular branch.

Was it caused by a storm?

Was this result of some kind of haphazard pruning?

Did it somehow have a mind of its own?

Whatever the injury or accident, or flippant non-conformity,

This limb still caught up with its siblings. 

Despite a nearly six foot base on this right angle,

This diversion seemed to make it all the more determined to still reach for the heavens. 

Now it shades a road where there would be no shade,

Offering me some comfort along with my curiosity. 

I thank the branch for a break from the sun. 

I hear it whisper through the gently blowing leaves,

“You’re welcome!”