Could I but draw some strength from thee
(tho' guilt would bind my heartwood)
I might grow out this tediousness
and bloom despite my tears.
Let me but grasp thy branches once
and from the sap I gain there
my trunk will take on bolder growth --
escape this gnarl of fears.
If I may touch thy heights awhile
(tho' fearing to descend them)
New buds will sprout and leaves spring out
released from dormant years.
And when these things are gained from thee
and I am all accomplished
My roots will gather depth in thee
as joint fulfillment nears.
