You were here first
Planted firmly, deep in soil
Casting shadows in the grass
Making rings for each year passed
A hefty price they paid
To bring you in dead
…..or dead
Roped and tied as if you’d run
You’ve stood your ground, oh rooted one
Branches reach toward the sun
One last time
As if begging for mercy
Now I watch your severed limbs
Turn into tiny chips
For pretentious gardens
And meaningless mulch
You may not be missed by those
Who mindlessly maim you
But I will miss you
My friend from over the fence
I will miss your undeniable presence
Your glorious stature
They can only kill you
But I will miss you