May 8, 2017

OAK TREE

Beneath the massive old oak tree
they carved their names for all to see.
The lovers very soon were wed
and underneath this tree they led
a peaceful and untroubled life.
He was her husband, she his wife.
Time went by and they grew old.
Through cruel winter's bitter cold
the giant oak will safely keep
and calmly watch them while they sleep.
And how can man die better
Than facing fearful odds,
For the ashes of his fathers,
And the temples of his gods?

- The Lays of Ancient Rome

✤ ✤ ✤ ✤ ✤

I hold it true, whate'er befall;
I feel it, when I sorrow most;
'Tis better to have loved and lost
Than never to have loved at all.

- Lord Alfred Tennyson, In Memoriam