In short, the story behind the image here is pretty standard. I went to an area that I have visited in the past. This area is kind of cool and features a small waterfall that I have photographed in the past. This time however I returned to the area because I wanted to photograph this old tree. The size of it indicates that it is very old and it kind of sits by itself. Funny how our lives kind of coincide with the tree. As we age, younger people don't really relate to those of us in our later years. I think back to when I was younger and a little more spirited in my viewpoints, and the way I lived life, I had a much bigger social circle. Now in midlife, I realize that people come and go, and to be honest, I do not think I would change a thing. When you stop and look at the big picture, and realize the mess this country is in, I cant relate to people who wont work, or feel that everybody owes them something. Some would say that us older people are just assholes, but the fact is, our life experiences and the final realization of just how screwed up people are these days, confirms a level of maturity. Sometimes its just better to get out and enjoy these little moments. The old tree is like an old man. Both are strong, mature, have seen a lot over our life times, and most importantly, they are spirited. 

I give you a Spirit Tree.  SPIRIT TREE (1 of 1)The Spirt Tree I did not do this old tree justice in my composition. It happens, it's all about light, and my light went soft.