Friends of the Forest

While waiting for us all, the trees stood tall
and shook their branches out to loosen dust
and freshen blossoms – then they preened and fussed
so soft old leaves and strips of bark should fall
to form a welcome carpet for our feet.
On high, their leaves gave eucalyptus scent
to waft on gentle breezes as we went
along the shaded tracks to where we'd meet.

Along another track the air was still
and sharp with fear as loggers brought their gear
to where they'd work – their hungry chainsaws shrill,
demanding food for gluttons at the mill.
Prepare for war! We need to make it clear:
this is one forest that they shall not kill!