I Climb the Tree

My right hand fingers

curve 'round a prickly wooden tube.

I run my left fingers in a spiral

on the stump of a once-budding branch

I press my palms to the tree, lifting myself in the air

my muscles burning in their usage.

I gather my footing, moving my feet in line up the trunk

defying gravity if not for my supporting arms.

With first a groan

a swing

and a shove

I'm up.

As at home in the branches as a monkey

as graceful in my movements as a bird.

I rest my body on the strongest branch

my mouth spreading into a toothy smile

as serenity fills the air.

Sandpapery bark brushes my cheek

as the fresh, crisp, clear air

inflates my lungs.

I turn my head.

A twig sneaks to my tongue,

earthiness taking over.

The world grins back at me

as I absorb nature

and tiptoe towards Nirvana.

The tree plays pretend

impersonating my home.

With then

a swish

a swing

and a jump,

I'm down.