Gemotions

The letter arrived, neatly typed, outlining the issue. The large oak tree, the one that straddled the property line, was causing problems. The roots, they said, were lifting the patio stones.

My first impulse was a deep intake of breath. I sat at my kitchen table, staring out at the tree. I could recall the children playing under it, their laughter echoing through the years. I pictured the swing set, the annual Easter egg hunts.

I got up, walked outside, and touched the rough bark. I knew the tree had stood tall for a very long time. I knew what I would do. I’d schedule a meeting and then make a decision.