I wish to grow like a tree,
to begin as a sapling and grow as tall as I can.
To shed my leaves in the fall and be able to rest all winter long.
And when spring returns to be able to start entirely anew, with my branches left as memories.

I wish to be able to grow out tall and wide to protect those beneath me,
to offer refuge to those in need,
to have many find peace beneath me,
to have others find inspiration in my age and endurance.
I wish for records of love to be carved into my memory stating "I heart..."

But mostly I wish to be able to start over every year, with my memories as a foundation and leaves as my mistakes.