Gerald

I talked to Gerald today
In the park he stands so patiently
Feeling the warm sun and occasionally showers
Aware of all the passers by and listening for hours
I lied and said you couldn’t get away
Too busy with your life all work no play
And so I come here walking all alone
He listens but says nothing

I talked to Gerald today
In the park he waits attentively
Since we were here together he’s matured and grown much taller
And standing next to him it somehow makes me feel much smaller
He’s changed his summer coat for autumn shades
The sky has turned from blue to dreary greys
But still I come here walking all alone
He listens but says nothing

I talked to Gerald today
In the park he stands and waits for me
Cold winter’s been and gone, he’s getting ready now for spring
And all around are signs of something new that life can bring
I told him that you will not come again
I’ve said it now, at last, I feel no pain
I’m glad I still come walking here alone
He listens but says nothing

But that should come as no surprise to me
After all Gerald’s only a tree
He listens but says nothing
Though he knows everything

Chris Flegg       October 2008