The Roots!

Happy Born Day to Me! As my friend Raashida put it this morning on the phone (this is your personal New Year)! I love it! Thanks to everyone for your beautiful messages and shout outs!

I wrote this pieces about 9 years ago about how much we grow in comparison to a tree. From the roots to the branches and as one layer may fall off a new fresh one is growing. I thank God today that He gave me 34 years, that he whispered in my Mother's ear, "You can do it, you maybe a single parent but you're not alone." Thank you Iya! I'm so thankful for everything that has happened...even the challenges! Challenges made me stronger and adds fuel to my fire and passion! Look out for more things this year! More publications, possibility of birthing my poetry book and who else knows...enjoy!

The Roots

Oooooh chile will you look at that tree
My how much it has grown
From an itty bitty branch
To an overgrown oak
I remember when I picked that tree
Out of a bunch
I sure had a hunch
That this itty bitty tree
Would grow oh so much
My goodness that was only two years ago
It stood tall and strong amongst the others
Even the roots were mature compared to the rest
Couldn’t believe she was so young
As I bend down to look at the roots
Hmmm…hmm…hmm
She sure showed me some!
Of what she went through
Some roots were cracked and bark chipped away
From the season before
And even one of her branches hung low
I knew like nothing else you have a little wear and tear
But that tree was strong
As I stepped closer
I was very overcome
That bark that chipped away
Was slowly being replaced with new growth
Hmmph and the roots even began to look nurtured
With moist soil from the rain the night before
It help the roots to heal
And where the dead leaves had fallen off
Her branches were preparing for the new
I had to take her home and plant her in my backyard
Where she can grow, flourish and get some sun
A place where I can nurture her roots by watering them
Clip her hanging leaves and treat the old bark
Yes in deed!
She can be restored in no time
After the dead weight is lifted from her
That was just two years ago
And look at her grow
I tell her everyday it’s okay to get bigger
Grow stronger
Grow more leaves
And have some strong roots
Don’t forget where you came from
What you have been through
The weather might be rough sometimes
But your strong roots will keep you grounded
And just to think…my baby is not even three yet
Hmmph! You sure showed them!
As you protect us from the rain
Give us shade from the sun
And those beautiful leaves fall
For my babies to play in
Oh yes honey…keep growing
Keep going
And don’t let nothing stop you!
Just don’t forget about those roots
I’m here to repair them when needed
Nurture and even mend
So your branches won’t bend
You are forming into such a beautiful
Blossoming
Oak tree
As we sit underneath you to stay cool in the heat
Keeping growing honey until you get old
Then pass on what you have learned
To another soul who may need mending
Pass the root and stay strong
And continue to grow

Written By: Serena T. Wills

September 26th, 2000

Inspired by decision in life that made me realize that it is good to grow and its okay to move on!

Keep striving!

Copyright 2000 by Serena T. Wills
All Rights are Reserved