On John’s Island, SC, just outside of Charleston there grows one of the oldest trees in America. Estimated to be over 1400 years old, it has survived fire, hurricanes, drought, and so far, civilization. Inspired by the angels before the throne of God, this is the Angel Oak.
Angel Oak
with two he covered his face,
and with two he covered his feet,
and with two he did fly. Isaiah 6:2Filled with the glory of God
you stretch out toward heaven,
grasp at the wind,
cover your head with
sackcloth of Spanish moss,
ashes of lichen and fern.For fourteen centuries
you have gloried in the winds
of hurricanes, almost taking flight.
With your limbs out stretched you would fly,
branches supported by the thick low country air,
which you breathe.And with your limbs to the ground,
you cover the thick roots
breaking through soil
holding you, fixing you
to the place of your birth.# # # # #
Previously published in Poetry Society of SC’s 2001 Yearbook – “Archibald Rutledge Prize” winner
Previously published in “The Holy City Chronicle” June 2002