Red Oak Tree
by Barbara Philbrook

A gift from God to you and me,
is the beautiful and magnificent red oak tree.

I can still close my eyes and the scent of mint is what I smell,
that particular scent that I remember so well.

There is a place I can go in my memory,
where I can stand beneath God's red oak tree.

I would peel the bark and take a small bite,
the taste you see was pure delight.

I go back in my memories every once in awhile,
and those old memories can still make me smile.

God has always blessed the red oak tree,
by using it so abundantly.

It's leaves give shelter to the birds in their nests so small,
nests resting on the branches of a tree mighty and tall.

It provides shelter from the sun for those needing shade,
God found many uses for the tree He so lovingly made.

Little creatures find shelter in the middle of the night,
others find a resting place to break up their flight.

It is a breeding place for some, a restaurant for others,
a place to hang a swing for little sisters and brothers.

Carpenters make buildings in which we can reside,
then oak can be used to make furniture to be put inside.

Who ever thought that such a magnificent tree,
would be brought forth from the little acorns we see.

Praise God for giving me so much delight,
and for the red oak tree memories so poignant and bright.

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