Roots

A tree can grow to staggering heights
And bloom flowers each spring

The leaves could be crisp and new
A spectacle for all to see

The branches can provide shade
On those hot summer days

A sanctuary for the little birds
That fly around your yard and play

A toy for young kids to climb
Even kids that are old

A memory for the longstanding couples
Who kissed under this tree long ago

Beauty at the very stalk
But what about the base

Roots travel deep down
But are neglected every day

A tree that stands so beautifully
Until one day that beauty will stop

For bugs began to eat at the roots
And soon all the magnificence rots

Just like you and I
No matter how well you do

Life can be grand but can quickly turn bad
If you neglect your roots

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