A Mighty Oak

Offering shelter from direct sunlight

Shade

Planted firmly in the ground

Roots

Deep and far

In the back of the grove

Not everyone notices

Content

Knowing God will bring those who need to rest

To be heard, to hear themselves

Wind rustles her branches

Creating gentle sounds for those needing a new thought

In the still, silent heat, leaves create shadows

Needing to be seen, noticed

They lean against her bark, partly smooth, partly rough

Wonder

Never breaking or dying, despite what has passed through

Storms, draughts, neglect, speculation

Planted first, but behind other trees in the grove, happy to

See them grow

Connected to Mother, never doubting she’ll supply food

Courage

Each acorn an offering to those who come for shade

Inside a tiny seed with potential to grow

A mighty Oak

Watch an interview with Emily reading and talking about her inspiration for A Mighty Oak.

A Mighty Oak was written by Emily Turner about Marjorie Whitner, the cover artist for House of Courage, a publication of Retreat House Spirituality Center.