A tree has fallen
The tree, strong from ancestry and adversity
Tangled roots knitted and woven in sweet harmony  
Nourishing growth and giving new life with the seeds of its branches
Offering shelter and the gentle shade of abundant leaves.

A tree has fallen
The fall was neither sudden nor the cause of clamor
Over time, gradually bent until no longer upright
Its roots still embedded in the foundations of the earth
Sustenance for those nearby and feeding generations to come.

A tree has fallen
Tonight, the full moon shakes me awake and calls “join me”
The glowing ball casts a shadow on the fallen remains
The glimmer assures the enduring fortitude of the now fallen tree
Moonlight honors the tree’s final message “You are not alone” 

My tree has fallen
The breeze and sound of waves whisper “I am with you”
The serenity of the moment confirms her presence
The tree offers release from my pain and embraces my soul
Farewell my tree, my love, my wife

Written, October, 2025, in remembrance of the author’s wife, Carol A Lassila, who died on 3/18/2025

Wayne L Winistorfer, MPA, OTR, FAOTA is a UW-Madison OT Program graduate (1977) and lives in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Wayne has over 48 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings, administrative roles, teaching, writing and consistent participation in WOTA, AOTA, and NBCOT. Wayne retired from full time work in 2021 yet continues to practice with two very part time occupational therapy jobs. He is very involved with family and community and knows the value of engagement in meaningful and purposeful occupations!