Growing up

Storm clouds gathering,
taking off against the wind—
child leaves parents’ home.

Deep inspection

Those rifts in our roots
where a shattered soul bleeds through
keep our dreams grounded

Unwanted

Scarred, marred, and thorny
relationships; cast aside,
felled trees on sidewalks.

Family

Winter morning in Canberra

Wintry sun, the son,
radiating defiance,
against trees, parents.

Transforming

Autumn trees, Canberra

Greying in stages,
varying shapes and sizes—
trees, our grandmothers.