My Tree Still Stands

The whipping winds, the freezing rain,
it did not understand the strain -
and did not understand the stress
of wicked, wintry colds excess.

Until the springtime snow was melting,
it kept taking earthly pelting.
It held firm throughout the frost
and persevered despite the cost.

Freezing rain was in the air -
yet life grew out of everywhere.
How can freezing offer good
as this tree stands misunderstood.

Does it strengthen, does it now?
Does it make me wonder how?
Does it test me, does it try,
and does it hurt me - make me cry?

And do trees know that life's not fair?
and do they know if God is there?
The cost for liberty, freedom great -
but it's not easy fighting hate.

Yet sunshine sees (through its appearance),
vast rewards from perseverance.
springtime buds its cheers of joy
and proves this world cannot destroy.

For God alone holds season's times -
protects our souls from earthly crimes.
And though the world claims its demands -
in springtime warmth, my tree still stands.