the eucalyptus has shed
its bark
now a smooth white
shushing like sandpaper
under my palm
it stretches fifty feet or more
and twists as it grows
a split the width of my finger
the length of my forearm
rises up the trunk
how simple it seems
to grow this way
add a ring
lose some skin
start over each year
praying for rain
and easy winds
Words and Feathers 
oh how this is so striking, moving, in a quiet and reflective way – yet the noticing of the changes, the smallest of details, how integral and important, and the desire to aspire to consider our own resilience in this way – beautiful!
love the lines:
now a smooth white
shushing like sandpaper
under my palm
Thank you!
I was going to mention that exact bit! Really nice piece, Crow.
Thank you so much!
My pleasure!