Willows

Sometimes we lean like trees
where rivers bend
and currents remove the soil.

The roots on which life depends
thus lie exposed,
inviting an unnatural end.

So it is we learn
fear of wind and of rushing water.
We can sing or whistle
but there are degrees of belief.

It is wind that breaks and uproots us,
leaves vulnerable to floods.

The rain that in summer cools us
is also the power of floods,
so is also able to destroy us.

To friends we are deeply vulnerable,
but we have no choice.