Plant a Tree
Reading edition
he Past unto the Present cries— Arise, ye more than blind, arise! For I who fell the forest low Would now another forest grow, But what is done I cannot mend, So unto you a message send— Much did I do for you, for me Plant a tree, Plant a tree.
The Present, waking from its sleep, Across the hills began to creep, And saw where Past had fallen far A noble forest, with a scar On many a wounded mountain side That from the elements would hide— And answered:—Past, I will for thee Plant a tree, A forest tree.
The feeling Future, yet unborn, Heard Present echoing her horn, And stirring somewhat in Life's cell Did try her dearest wish to tell, Whispering in an undertone: I—I shall reap as ye have sown, O heed the Past! and—thanks to thee— Plant a tree, Plant a tree.
