The Tree Up Ahead

The Tree Up Ahead
by Gabe Redel


I don’t see it.
I know there is a tree
up ahead,
and on its branches
is the fruit that will heal me.

If I hug myself
super tight
and put my head down
I will get to it.

I know it is up ahead.
It will be there
ready for me.
I can taste the fruit
with only a thought.

I’ll keep my head down.
I’ll hug myself super tight.
I’ll wait for Father Time
to unplug the seconds
that stab me
with every tick.

I know I’ll get there.
I can make it.
I know there’s healing
up ahead where that tree grows.