Two Falling Trees

Last Friday the spring wind storm took down half the 50 year old maple tree that lived in my sister's yard so graciously for all that time. She remembers grabbing its twiggy beginning and being told by our dad to treat it gently because it would become a big shade tree someday. It did but it found its end in the wind of last week. In fact, it fell across a moving car, blocked the street and caused neighborhood chaos for hours. No one was hurt although the two passengers in the car were scared to pieces. Another two feet and the story could have ended in a deadly way. So when Bobbie came home, neighbor Diane was handling the media, neighbor Sue was handling all the emergency vehicles and all the neighbors were enjoying the spectacle. Many commented on the sadness they felt at losing this iconic tree and my sister is really mourning its loss.

Here at home, my friend Karalee is dying of cancer. She is like a tree herself in the strong, comforting, no-nonsense presence she has provided in the forest of life. She remains cheerful, positive and engaged in living even as the trunk of her shrivels and whitens. She is taking her leave with poise and dignity. I have boundless admiration for her and appreciate being a part of the family as we do what we can to help her take her place in eternity. Good-by, Karalee. You are falling not to the ground but into the universe.