My dear friend, Magnolia,
I have often found consolation while
standing within the embrace
of your sturdy branches.
You are a shelter from 
the raging storms of life, so I ask, 
What lessons can I learn from you?

I see such beauty in your leaves and blossoms
and strength in your trunk and branches. 

When I look closely at your trunk
I see the place where your
two main branches separate 
and you began to grow.

In that place of separation 
I also see that a heart-shaped opening has formed.
It is a heart of healing in your trunk
that allows you to expand and grow.

What a timeless truth your trunk and branches tell!
Where there is a healing of separation
love can continue to grow.
 It is in places of healing
that consolation and refuge are found
within a loving embrace .