The Walnut Tree: Saying Goodbye

“This walnut tree is for you, Max.” 

Watching the young man kneeling on the ground planting a tiny, walnut tree seedling in the equestrian park, a nearby rider spotted him.

“Is he saying goodbye to someone?”

As he stood up, Matt wiped the sweat and salty tears from his face. It was hot and he had mixed emotions. 

He had never had an easy life, having grown up in a dysfunctional family. One by one, he had lost all of his family members and now, after the death of older brother, he was completely alone.

“At least, there will never be any more family fights,” said Matt. “As a brother, you were always a hard nut to crack. Now, you will be at peace. That is all I ever wanted for you.”

“God, I commit my brother to your care,” he said, as he poured bottled water over the newly planted tree. 

“It may be many years before I can come back here, Max, but always remember that God loves you and so do I, in spite of everything. Love never dies because “God is Love.”

“If only Max had understood,” thought Matt, as he walked down the equestrian trail, towards the road. “I was never trying to run his life. He could have gotten help for alcoholism and substance abuse. Instead, he chose to go his own way. Why am I the only one who did not follow in our father’s footsteps?”   

Just then, a white dove circled overhead.

“Sir,” called the young woman, who had been watching him from a distance. “Please, can you help me? My horse has lost a shoe and is skittish.”  

Just then, a shot rang out, the horse reared and the young woman fell into the mud.

Matt towards her, quickly helped her up and grabbed the horse’s reins.

“Are you hurt?” he asked, as a second shot rang out. “We have to get out of here, fast.”

“No, you had better go. I don’t want to put your life in danger,” replied the young woman. “I have a jealous boyfriend.”

“You need help. I am not unfamiliar with dysfunctional relationships.”