The Stately Pine

There was a stately pine in the middle of the wood. This pine was taller than the other trees around it but it was never noticed much since the area was heavily wooded. Throughout the years, this tree has attracted many birds and other animals simply because of its height and stately demeanor.

Birds have never built their nests in this tree although they often made offerings of scraps from their nests to drape across the branches. Snow accumulates first on its descent through the branches. On a clear night, the snow reflects in the branches to make it look like the tree has lights.

From a distance, houses overlook the forest. Many children have gazed out their windows on these clear winter nights and wondered about this extraordinary Christmas tree lit just for them. The ribbons of scraps the birds leave behind gently woven through the branches offer specks of color reflected through the snow. Pine cones and holly are hung as ornaments by these loving creatures.

Were you to find this stately pine from the ground, it wouldn't look like much since the lowest branches create a seven foot ceiling over the forest floor. The magic cannot be seen from below. However, the animals know that this is a special tree and upon close inspection, you will find many gifts secreted around the trunk. These gifts are wrapped by nature and given of nature by nature. The pile of gifts has grown each year.

If you really want to experience the magic, though, look out of your window on a clear Winters night when Santa is expected. The tree, majestic in its beauty, will make you believe.