My family is a tree,

Strong and standing against the odds.

Riley is the branches stretching out

And dependent on the trunk,

While unique, it is fragile compared to the bark.

I'm also the branches spreading across, waiting to head out

And be on my own, for the day, the snap, and independence.

Chase is a leaf bringing color

To the tree while going on his own.

Mom is the trunk,

Smart and knows how to

Bring us together.

She is firm and sticks

To what is right.

Dad is the roots,

Working and hurting for us.

He teaches until the

Fateful day of when we leave

And walk alone,

Without him. Braden Bower