Silent Hero

She stands firm and majestic
ever listening
never complaining
A golden canopy of humble grace
covering all sorrows

Her strength is evident --
A guardian, protector
Beautiful, warm and benevolent
but detached,
almost aloof
Needing no praise or affection
for herself

Unclimbable,
unknowable,
offering no branch for a swing,
and rugged to the touch,
It is clear she's to be admired
from afar
Swaying with life's winds
but never moved

As I lie in her shade
I catch a rare offering --
A falling leaf
like a golden teardrop

Then I wonder --
Who guards the guardian?
Who protects the protector?

And my heart aches
for her cool fortitude