Wisdom tree

This old tree waited patiently
for when the spring would come.
Then it would again regally
be clothed in luscious green.

But when spring came, the patient tree
found on itself gray leaves!
How did this come to be? You see,
The tree had wished for this.

Oh! If only on me clearly could be
a sign of  my long years.
Then everyone would show to me
The respect I deserve.

The aged tree got it's request
To it thronged crowds of men, who
respectfully bowed to it in quest
of wisdom that age brings.