I used to have a comfort tree,
a ponderosa pine.
It grew above a local trail,
and in my heart was mine.

I’d lean my back against its trunk
And feel the jig-saw puzzle bark,
let my thoughts flow quietly through
from spinal cord to wooden ark.

Sometimes I’d build a small bonfire
to warm my hands on a chilly day,
sometimes eat a sandwich there
or pour a thermos cup of tea.

Miles north, and years flown by,
I really need another tree
to lean against and contemplate
our country’s darkening history.

I used to have a comfort tree,
a ponderosa pine.
It grew above a local trail,
and in my heart was mine.

Like bushtits clustered on the suet
we feed in groups on hearing news.
We march and curse and march again
and call for legislators’ dues.

Petitions signed and letters written,
we Facebook and we use our phones,
but what we also need to do —
let authors know they aren’t alone.

I used to have a comfort tree,
a ponderosa pine.
It grew above a local trail
and in my heart was mine.

Placed in Literary Ballad category-Spring 2017
3rd Prize “Comfort Tree” – Susanne Twight-Alexander – Eugene, Oregon

Judge’s comment: “Comfort Tree” has a sweet traditional sound but also incorporates a modern element with contemporary political references. I liked that and I liked the poignant repeated line, “and in my heart was mine.” Sometimes a small adjustment would make the rhythm more musical though small adjustments can be a matter of personal judgment of course. Overall the author did a good job.