Guards

In the palm of ancient hands
Lies a seed to guard the dead
Buried deep in antique earth
Beside the body's head.

A thousand years ago
The burial of a friend
A tree to watch upon
The life that came to end.

Living on for centuries
As long as they're allowed
Standing in the churchyards
To protect as they have vowed.

A pagan ritual beauty
Branches riddled with vines of ivy
Standing there for always
The wonder of the yew tree.