Sentinel

Dead tree on Clingman's Dome, originally uploaded by diahn.

I don't know why, but these dead trees up on the roof of the Smoky Mountains are both sad and beautiful to me.

Sad for the obvious reasons - it's a terrible thing to see something so majestic has died.

Beautiful in the stark contrast of white trunk against crisp blue sky.

I'm feeling a bit melancholy and introspective the last couple of days. The approaching holidays trigger it a bit, I think - even as much as I know I'll enjoy them. There's always a place that feels a little like this tree. An expectation that I know will always remain unmet. A gash that heals but never quite closes - and can't be closed.

Holidays are hard on those left behind.

Hug your family today, okay?

Peace.