Trees Seen on a Trip to Europe

by Tess Martinus

I saw beeches shading an avenue,
Pines on an expanse of grass,
Cypress carved on a cathedral,
Cedar captured in stained glass.
I saw the cross of Christ on a cupola,
In a niche covered of flowers,
Saw it occupied, saw it empty,
Saw pilgrims contemplating it for hours.
A protector from the scorching heat
A strong tower in the storm
A rest for travelers’ weary feet
Is a tree—Is the Creator of trees.