Shagbark Hickory

The shagbark hickory stands on one side of our property all on its own. It is close enough to the road to cast a shadow, yet far enough away that we must mow in between. Its branches spread wide and tall. The bark peels and has the appearance of jagged wood, dry and curled on the ends.

The leaves begin as these little green buds, and turn into large, beautiful leaves, full and providing shade. The fruit of this tree begins to form long before it is visible. It starts out as a small bud and turns into a hard hickory nut. It draws in deer, squirrels and other small animals storing up for winter.

This beast of magnificence amazes me. When it begins to turn in the fall, it changes color in a couple days. I leave for work one morning and the leaves are green. A couple days later they have turned completely yellow and orange, crispy and crunchy when they begin to fall. Inside the tree, it is preparing for a long cold winter. It stores up sugar and energy, preparing for the spring bloom.

Once the leaves fall and the tree looks empty, you can see all its branches. It is so full and thick, and beautiful against the sky. It has crooked branches which taper down to their tips. Some dried hickory nuts hang there, with a couple leaves here and there. The bark holds tight to the tree. It looks as though it has been through some things in its life.

I am unsure of all its secrets, but I know it must have some. I know it has seen storms, smooth summer days and starry spring nights. I know this tree has stood for at least 50 years, maybe longer. It has seen a lot of things on this country road.

This tree has watched over our family for over 13 years. We moved here with 4 children- now we have 4 adult kids with spouses and significant others and cars and kids of their own! I wonder what the tree thinks?

I wonder if it whispers on the wind about the memories it has. I sit and look at its branches, looking like a mother with arms outstretched, welcoming everyone home again. I see its protective shade in the hot summer sun. I see its fruit feed the wildlife. I enjoy watching it respond to wind and rain, swaying in the air like a choir ready to burst out in song and dance.

It reflects the sun and collects the snowflakes. It holds steady in the wind and allows a place to rest in the sun. This tree is an amazing creation. It starts from a small seed and grows to a masterpiece. It stands so majestic I can see it from miles away and know I am almost home.

Much like the shagbark hickory, I have spent the majority of my life protecting ang guiding others. There have been times I have withstood storms. As a believer, wife and mother, I have sheltered those I love. There have always been outstretched arms to protect them and a place to lean on when they need it most.

The lessons learned from this giant have been priceless. I enjoy having it by the house. I love seeing it as a landmark for our home. Knowing it is here when I arrive is a priceless gift. I hope when my kids come home they see it and know they have arrived too.