Looked out the window in the near-dusk dark

And saw a proud face looking back in the bark

Nose and eyes extending into a fine long beard

On top - a crown, making a regal face ... feared



Gazing back at the image in great awe and wonder

Reflecting well on creations of nature's thunder ...

For the tree had been broken off by lightning above

Leaving clear image of a King's stately face to love 

 

As the long shadows cast from a nearly setting sun

Etched out the features of a fine Kingly face borne

To sit at top of an insignificant totem pole ...

So clearly lording over the yard, with quiet gaze so full



Were I to wear a crown and then to stand guard over my yard

Would I look as regal or stately ... as the face in the bark ... ?



- Tristram



(c) Christopher W. Thomas

10:05pm Monday, June 8th, 1998