God, what a joy it is to plant a tree, <br />And from the sallow earth to watch it rise, <br />Lifting its emerald branches to the skies <br />In silent adoration; and to see <br />Its strength and glory waxing with each spring. <br />Yes, 'tis a goodly, and a gladsome thing <br />To plant a tree. <br /> <br />Nature has many marvels; but a tree <br />Seems more than marvellous. It is divine. <br />So generous, so tender, so benign. <br />Not garrulous like the rivers; and yet free <br />In pleasant converse with the winds and birds; <br />Oh! privilege beyond explaining words, <br />To plant a tree. <br /> <br />Rocks are majestic; but, unlike a tree, <br />They stand aloof, and silent. In the roar <br />Of ocean billows breaking on the shore <br />There sounds the voice of turmoil. But a tree <br />Speaks ever of companionship and rest. <br />Yea, of all righteous acts, this, this is best, <br />To plant a tree. <br /> <br />There is an oak (oh! how I love that tree) <br />Which has been thriving for a hundred years; <br />Each day I send my blessing through the spheres <br />To one who gave this triple boon to me, <br />Of growing beauty, singing birds, and shade. <br />Wouldst thou win laurels that shall never fade?<br /><br />Ella Wheeler Wilcox<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/go-plant-a-tree/
