The Tree

In the far distance lays an incredible tree with the lushest of leaves and a vibrant aura. I thought of this tree as having a solid foundation, strong, and beautiful for years.
The cracks manifested themselves yesterday, and I realized, while strong and beautiful in its own ways, is not quite what I had anticipated.

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The leaves are not a glowing red, but a gloomy burgundy. They are dry and ragged from excessive abuse. The bark is peeling off at a rapid rate and isn't able to properly conceal itself. Its true colors are showing. It is a husk of what I envisioned. It is my own voluntary blindness that causes this shocking revelation.

Beneath the worn and weak appearance does lie a strong foundation; it merely needs nurturing. It needs to be shown the best paths to extend its leaves and lay down its roots. I can't be as invested in every single branch and leaf as I once was, but I let the tree lean on me the same way I've leaned on it for all those years. The dreary tree blooms a single red flower. The tree glistens in the sunlight. Hope is not lost.

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