He stands near the tree. A general stare at nothing particular in that direction. As long as his eyes are fixed on nothing in particular and focused toward the tree, his eyes show no movement. Chances are, he will perceive movement; like a lizard awaiting a gnat. A frog awaiting a mosquito. A fox awaiting a rabbit. As he stands near the tree, he remains still and awaits the movement of the roots.
How old is this tree? The shadow of a person nearby says, "Look at the roots."
He stares at the tree. "I cannot see the roots. I am looking for movement."
The shadow suggests, "Look at the leaves. Perhaps rake the ground."
He stares at the tree. "The leaves have movement, yet the roots are not revealed."
The shadow suggests, "Get some water. Build a tree house and invite some friends."
He stares at the tree. Remaining still, he awaits the movement of the roots.
His thoughts rush in. Recent memory stirs. He's only ten. Emotions are turbulent. Wanting acceptance; fear of failure, he slams the door. Expelling frustration he kicks the wall. The response is punishment. The doorjamb is damaged. There is now a hole in the wall.
He cries. The response is punishment.
His cry is that of failure. That of defeat. Yet the very reason defeat is hurtful, and failure extreme is because he loves his father. He does not want his father to be disappointed in him. He cries because his father is unhappy with him; and that's why defeat is hurtful and failure is extreme. His tears of emotion go up to his father who knows; his son loves him. The boys' tears are a testament to that.
The father stares at the tree. Remaining still, he awaits the movement of the roots.
The root is revealed through the tears of his son.
