There was no ignoring the loud, buzzing chainsaw outside my house. City workers (I’m guessing) were trimming the branches of the big tree in front of my home. I assumed it was to keep them clear of the power lines.
Trucks blocked my driveway and delayed my plans to work out, but it gave me a chance to do other things while I was still at home.
As I went about my business, I heard a loud boom. I looked out my window, shocked to find the big tree had made that thunderous noise. They weren’t just trimming the overgrown branches. They had cut the big tree down!
Mourning the Loss of a Tree
I’m not sure why, but I suddenly got emotional. Filled with sadness, I started to cry. It may sound silly, but I was mourning the loss of a tree. I didn’t realize I had an attachment to this tree, and it felt as if something special was being taken away from me. It has, after-all been here since my parents bought this house in the 90’s and undoubtedly, was around long before that.
The tree, in its massiveness was comforting and beautiful. Its absence changes the landscape. It was a landmark I often referred to whenever I was dropped off by taxi or Uber. I would tell the driver, “It’s the house on the left, by the big tree.”
Goodbye Big Tree
It was a dead tree (though I didn’t quite understand how it still bore leaves). The inside of the tree was rotting and hollow. It was its time to go and it was time for me to let it go.
As I reflected on the big tree, I thanked it for the shade it provided, and for the beauty and serenity it added to our block.
Goodbye big tree. I shall miss you.
