That big old tree

I've been laying here all day. I look out the window and watch a leaf fall off that big old tree. My mind can't seem to function the pieces I need to help me figure out how I ended up like this. As a gentle breeze runs through my hair, a memory of the way I used to laugh with you runs through my mind. Those magical nights on the beach, sitting on the sand that's cooling off from the day. We laughed, we talked, we were so in love. With the sound of waves, and that clear night sky, with the moon's reflection on the water, you kissed me and my sadness disappeared.
As a strong wind runs through my face, I open my eyes and stare at that old tree. It's leafs scattering all over the ground, and the branches all torn up and dead. I remember how it used to be green and very pretty, and now, it's nothing but a big, old, yellow tree. I remember how I used to smile, and I remember the tingle in my heart when you hugged me as we sat there watching the sky turn colors with the sunset. Now I have an emptyness in my heart to replace the happiness of those beautiful days we shared.
A memory runs through my mind of a time when I was at the beach alone. The soft and tasty breeze caressing my skin. I look up, and so suddenly, you tell me you can't see me anymore. You say goodbye and walk away. As I sit there and watch you walk away, the waves get stronger and the breeze turns into a storm of whirling winds. I open my eyes and see a leaf fall from that tree. In that moment, I once again feel how painful it was to walk in the clouds with a gentle breeze all around me and suddenly fall down to the ground where there are strong winds turning into a storm. As a tear falls from my eyes, another leaf falls from that tree.
But as I lay there, the fall turns into winter and then spring again. I look out the same window, at that big, green, beautiful tree. I catch a glimpse of a colorful flower and a beautiful butterfly. I feel happy and hopeful, so I get up and start again.

~By Sandra Vargas