The weeping willow gets it's name from the way it bends down and dangles its branches. People think it looks sad, depressed, melancholy.
I think it is quite the opposite. The willow does not sulk, it reaches down to gently, lovingly caress those who partake of its shade. It leans down and listens intently to the stories shared there.
The willow does not weep because it is sad, the willow weeps tears of joy and contentment. It rejoices in the fun games played and the wonderful stories told.
The willow has heard many stories and poems over the years. Stories told to young and old alike. If you sit long enough and you remain quiet and still, while the branches gently sway in the breeze and the rustling leaves cause the sunlight to dance beneath the tree, you can hear the stories in the whispers from the willow tree.