A/N: The dash (-) signals a stanza break because I could find no other way to do that. If you know of a way, let me know. Thanks!

“Arboreal Atrophy”

Little termites quickly

gnaw at the tree

which once stood

proud and strong.

-

So, it has come down to this.

-

This tearing apart

of things once held dear.

-

Some things don’t work out

and that cannot be changed.

The past is the past

and you cannot go back.

-

The damage has been done.

-

But push the termites farther

and the tree will surely die.

-

Then nothing will be left

except anger

and pain.

-

The leaves,

now brown,

are already crumbling

under the merest touch.

-

Sometimes it is best

just to let go.

-

Some things must end

in order for new things

to begin.

-

So, let it go

and move on.

Bigger and better things

await you...

other trees

who would live

to grow taller and stronger.

-

There are those

who would stand behind you,

and those who would not.

You know who they are.

Choose only those

who would choose to support you.

-

Open your eyes

for there is a new seedling

that patiently awaits

your passionate touch.