Once

Once a little seedling,
As tiny as could be.
With hopes and dreams to grow,
Wanting to be noticed, wanting to be seen.

Once a growing sapling,
Longing to become a mighty tree.
Wishing to stand tall and grand,
Towering above for all to see.

Once a small tree,
Now starting to be seen.
But still hidden in shadows,
Of the greater and more mighty.

Once a mature tree,
Now standing tall; now always seen.
Everyday facing chilling threats,
That careless, greedy mankind brings.

Now a majestic elderly tree,
Now wise and scared to be seen.
So far a survivor from those daunting human beings.
If only it was once again a little seedling; unnoticed and trouble free.