Fallen

This has always been one of my favorite trees at Small College. I drive past it every day on my (one-block) commute home.

This maple was planted when the science building was built half a century ago, and has grown into one of our most gorgeous harbingers of the changing seasons.

It's the first to leaf out in the spring, and its branches burst with fire at the first touch of fall weather.

This year I haven't loved the tree as much. Can you see why? Maybe you'll see if I give you a different view.

Husband thinks the tree-hugger in me is out of control ("Woodsman, spare that tree!"), but I'm devastated by this mutilation. I understand that branches need to be trimmed away from utility lines, but this?

This makes me want to weep.