The Top of that Old Tree

by Joseph J. Biernacki

Never underestimate the heights that you might reach. Never think that something is too above your feet.

Someday,

I’ll touch the surface of the moon,

Excavate a pyramid,

And sneak into my sis’ room.

I’ll…

Invent a pill to make all well,

Climb the summit Everest,

And learn to read and write and spell.

I’ll…

Discover a new galaxy,

Study anthropology,

And count my way past 93.

I’ll…

Perform a song for kings and queens,

Paint a famous face or place,

And handle fish and hooks and bait.

I’ll…

Explore the bottom of the sea,

Trek across the Amazon,

And reach the top of that old tree.

Someday…

(March 2017, revised February 2026)