The Phenomenal Dogwood Tree

Welcome to my land, fantastical warm days with cool breezes,
when the earth explodes in a rainbow of colors, a feast for
wide eyes to behold; our own magical musical globe.
I marvel at day-to-day changes, invigorating my mind,
enlightening my spirit.

I admire the phenomenal beauty of the Dogwood tree:
its' trunk's good and strong, roots run solid and deep,
crowned mightily with a thick covering of leaves
and for all too short of time, fragrant flowers
burst forth, enshrouding with majesty and grace.
         Though, I know their sweet smell and dancing
petals will only last a short while.

I reaffirm my obvious beauty may have faded, a bit
more twisted in my trunk, still my roots recondite,
my core of power and grace still abides.

For within the petals of the tree, I'm reassured
that Christ died for me. I'm silenced and humbled
at such a mind-blowing, soul-saving gift.

Within my polyresin filled box of glass,
the cross of the Dogwood flower is clearly seen.
Two long petals and two short, remind me I can do all
things through Christ who strengthens me.
         Even when I feel utter hopelessness.

Whorls scattered upon each inward blossom, stained
rusty brown like those of the nails hammered into
His hands and feet. Red dots sprayed across the
tender, fleshy pink, signify the shedding of His blood.
         He suffered and died so I may live and
live more abundantly, sending unto me the Holy Spirit,
and offering a direct line of communication, so I may
be able to handle the obstacles hurled onto my path.

And I marvel if I just a mere human can love and protect
my children with all that I am-- how much more can
God love, forgive and protect us?

In the very center of this precious gift is a crown
of thorns. A cruel crown for our true King.
One heavenly day, I hope to have a jeweled
crown of glory to toss at His feet.

For what a blessed momento each year, from this
one extraordinary tree, that can bring me to
a stop to reflect upon what's truly important
in this awesome, sometimes uncertain, but always
magical circle of life.

(43 lines)

Subject or Theme: Something uniquely 'Spring. ▼

That green tinge in the trees, the scent of grass during that first mow, lilacs, ... and apply it to your life.
Word(s) to Include: music box, glass, fantasy, circle (or any derivatives of these words)
Forbidden Word(s): spring, green, grow, (or any derivatives, compound or hyphenations of these words)
Additional Parameters: Min 24 lines, non-rhyming.
Remember, do not use forbidden words ANYWHERE, including title or the brief description.