a tree sits atop a hill
its roots reach deep into the earth
searching, gathering
its trunk stands solid and strong
the bark rich and warm
beating with the rhythm of life

the tallest branches reach toward the sky
the emerald green leaves
sway softly in a breeze
A thrasher calls to its mate nearby

But there is a sickness within this tree
one that stems from deep within
one that darkens the roots
and makes the beautiful leaves shrivel
and die

What causes this sickness?
Does it have a name?
Can it be cured?

The tree only sighs and gently shakes its leaves
for the tree still sits alone on the hill
waiting
hoping