My Little Mulberry Tree

It's mulberry season!

Just around the corner from me is a miracle of nature and the drive to survive. In a tiny triangular bit of vacant land between two buildings, and behind an old wooden fence, is a tree. I don't know what type it is, and it doesn't matter, because under that tree, and spilling over the fence is a Mulberry tree/bush. Every year for more than 20 years it struggles for a little light, and a little space of its own in this world, and every year someone chops it down. Despite the tiny slivers of late afternoon sun that it has to make do with, each year it clambers back over the fence with fresh branches and leaves and on cue provides a feast of fast ripening mulberries for those who pass by. I like to believe this strong willed little mulberry is making its gift just for me, and so I give thanks each year as I taste the new crop and wish my little mulberry all the best and long life.