Tree of Hope

Today we’re planting a tiny seed,
A seed so small that it seems invisible.
But with love and time it will one day grow
into a thing so great it will be invincible!
For this seed, you see, is for the Tree of Hope;
a tree more mighty than an ash or oak
and once it’s planted it will grow and grow
and produce an amazing, varied show.
Today we’re planting a tiny tree.
Shall we see what our tree will one day be?
Our tree will be as high as the arc of the sky,
and planes will pass right under its branches.
Our tree will be strong as voices in song,
and metal and stone will be unable to harm it.
Our tree will be as old as dinosaur bones,
and be wrinkled and gnarled like a bather’s toes.
Our tree will be proud like a brand new dad.
It will lighten the load of all who’re sad.
And when its spread its roots and twigs
and fed on the sun for years and years.
And when it has filled its leaves with song
Then our tree will produce its special fruit.
A fruit as sweet as a goal at Wembley.
A fruit as loving as a Grandma’s hands.
A fruit as rich as a summer pudding.
A fruit as great as life itself.
And then
we will
dance
around
our tree
giving

thanks for hope,
for you and me.

Written for the official opening of the Downside Lower School Garden
- Thursday 29th June 2000

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