Eight years later...

I caught sight of this tree carving along the trail at the park yesterday. Couldn't quite stop thinking about it the rest of the afternoon.....Carol and Sean, I wonder...has your love endured? Have you remained as steadfast, in sunshine and storm clouds, as the tree that bears your mark? Or, has your skin grown tough through the years, bearing love's scars, healed over but still holding some tender memory of the pain? Might the exuberant Springtime of your pairing still be apparent eight years after it grew here amidst these natural surroundings ? I imagine two people...hearts happy and hopeful, surrounded by wildflowers and an avian choir, in a moment so enchanting that it was destined to be captured and born witness by this tree and those who pass by it forever. I don't know you, but I dearly hope this monument still serves you well. I hope seeing it reminds you of youthful dreams and blushing love; of springtime sunshine and singing birds. I hope you might also return here for contemplation and renewal, at times when it is needed. If there are children, I hope you walk with them here and tell the story of your blossoming love to their smiling, upturned faces. If, sadly, you have parted ways...well, I hope you still might come back on occasion, and search out this tree along the path. It holds a precious part of you and may perhaps remember the day you came together eight years ago. Go visit. You might both need a big hug.