These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

The Birch

It’s white with stripes throughout as thick.
The stripes are dark as though it’s marred.
In winter stands are soldiered sticks.
In summer green leaves make them starred.

The stand of birch, ensembled hosts,
who stand, and serve throughout their lives.
Such stalwart sentries strong as posts,
who speak no words, but daily thrive.

Unlauded by most eyes, that see,
and hands, that touch or lean to rest.
In joy, they stand as known by He,
Who made them, keeps them daily blest.

Unnumbered trees lost in the crowd,
community of entwined roots.
They need no praise, and ne'er are proud.
Their flaking barks, such beauteous suits.

Now, may we learn a lesson, rare,
to stand, and be as we are made.
Our beauty is forever there
to Him, Whose service we are bade.

by Jay O’Toole
on April 7th, 2022