Cottonwood Trees

 Cottonwood trees fluttering

on the shores of the river---

bending and swaying 

with the summer breeze.

The trees aren’t fighting the wind,

but dancing with the wind---

Both moving rhythmically together

Creating mesmerizing beauty.

Resist and the wind will win.

Stand stiff and proud and trees will tumble.

Cottonwoods survive by

Not giving up but channelling 

energy, working together:

Bending and leaning into life’s struggles.