Were You A Tree Poem by C Richard Miles

Were you a tree, what species would you be?
If you could choose one, would your choice include
Stout oak, perhaps, so strong to stand by me
When trouble’s winds assail me, rough and rude?
Or straight-limbed ash to guide me on my way
To show what’s right and choose the upward path?
Might maple’s broad, bright leaves inspire, so they
Can share our joys as we together laugh?
Sweet apple’s fruit would help me to maintain
That healthy life you’d grant with rich supply.
Would weeping willow help you share my pain
And shed soft tears I can no longer cry?
But I suppose that selfish, faithless you
Would hide your poison in red-berried Yew.