Obstacle

The sapling sprouts

on a slope

above a large rock.

As it grows, very slowly,

over years and decades,

it sinks roots down,

over and around the

cold, gray stone.

Some take the easiest path,

plunging straight down into

the topsoil.

Others must stretch

around the rock’s sides or

up and over the top,

tasting the naked air,

seeking, seeking,

the earth’s hold.

At last,

even these 

find purchase.

The stone is now

surrounded

by roots.

Rather than blocking

the tree’s path,

rather than causing

instability,

the rock becomes part

of the tree’s character.

The obstacle

is now intrinsic

to the nature of

the tree.

Distinct and original,

the tree survives,

thrives,

holding the rock in

its radical embrace.

One of my SoulCollage® cards.  It inspired this poem and some thoughts about dealing with obstacles.