One Tree

Outside my window 
one lone dead tree 
is standing firm 
in brave desiccation 
among other hickories, 
that share the light 
of their chlorophyll 
while swaying in the wind. 

Already my bark is stringy, 
my fruit drying as it drops. 
leaves falling quickly. 
Soon my roots will give way, 
and my frame will crack. 
But there is this to say: 
Naked limbs against the sky 
will open windows on the sun 
as it leaves its message 
in blazing signature.