Long ago I learned about a tree
as I stood for hours reading
the story unfolded and let me see;
from it today - till when it was a seedling.

The marks and twists of the trunk,
even dates and initials into it cut;
scorches were lightning struck.
Yet a lot of its story was tight shut.

Thus I learned maybe if I needed a friend
this would be a good one for me to know.
Its life was long and it wouldn't ever end;
you see I was a child and didn't emotion show.

Thus my tree in the forest was just mine.
It was always there for me to talk or climb.
Never once to me did it say it didn't have time.
And the zephyr in its branches sound like a chime.

Therefore then as now we all need a place
where we can go to be alone or with a friend;
and thus like my tree in the forest is the case
for me to find another hiding place to extend.

So if you are looking for me no where found,
look for my tree in the forest of my mind.
There you'll find me often laying on the ground,
talking with friends and to those who are kind.

Not all know of this place hidden deep within
but if you are patient someday you will find;
and I'll be understanding in quiet let you in.
Please allow me this time to hide within my mind.