The ancient tree looked down obstinately at the fresh young vine as it was beginning to make its way up the tree's weathered bark.

"Why should I let you live?" asked the old tree.

"I am older than you are, and I know where you came from," replied the vine.

"I am the dream that you cannot quite remember, the first song that you sing in the morning. I am the cord that binds the rings of your life."