You must know, Son
That there’s a time in man’s life
To be turned
Into a solitary tree
Whereupon birds build their nests,
Raid it for its fruit
And smudge it with droppings.

Remember, my son
That this is the time
When seasons’ storms
Will test your strength
By wrestling your boughs
To see if you have roots
Strong enough
To embarrass hurricanes.

Stand firm in the hearts
Of those who love you
And grow strong
From blows of suffering
Because the life of an upright man
Is the salt of this world.