It is late August, and I am currently touring in the Northwest. Everywhere I look I see trees in one form or another. The wash of the variety of green is exhilarating and, at the same time, peace full. Here and there, the first hints of Fall are spotting some of the deciduous sycamores and aspens inviting them to express in reds and oranges and yellows. It is a great time to be here and to feel the power of the trees.
I drove from Portland to the coast of Oregon yesterday and went through a grove of trees that canopied the two lane road. I noticed the trees approaching as I approached from the flat field of corn. It had a visual appeal that reminded me of a Grant Wood painting, filled with the shapely variations on the theme. The moment I entered the grove I felt the sweeping wash of calm. I relaxed into the seat, letting my shoulders drop down. I was truly in a peaceful vibration. It was palpable. The trees were loving me, blessing me with what was truly a welcome gift.
I have had the same experience in Kauai when driving to Poipu. One must drive through a mile long grove of eucalyptus trees. It is visually and energetically stunning. I could spend the day simply walking among those trees. They give off such a sweet energy.
I have always loved how the oak trees on the central coast of California, where I grew up, spread their branches up and out and down to the ground. Their stately presence grounds me in moments. The branches invite a climb. Their design variation gives each a personality, living beings of beauty and power.
When I drive though the southwest I am gifted at the sight of the Joshua trees, those mangled expressions of life…like statues in the red dirt and the blue sky…offering shade and protection to the creatures of the desert.
And, yes, I have stood in the presence of the giant Sequoia trees in California. Each a towering testament to the slow movement of time, the Sequoias bless all within visual distance with a loving vibration. They are breathtaking. Right beside them is the pine and douglas fir forest , like constant companions in a cooperative community.
I could go on and on about these blessed natural beings, the trees. To stand next to one, to hug one, to seek shelter, to sit up against the trunk, to enjoy the marvelous display of color as it travels through the seasons, to watch them sway in the breeze and bend in the wind…magical.
That these expressions of life show up in such perfect variation to oxygenate life is nothing short of a miracle. And we haven’t even talked about their giving of themselves to provide shelter, furniture, instruments, tools, fire and warmth…to ease the moments of living of humanity and all of life’s beings.
Take time this week to witness the trees in nature. Behold their essence and give thanks for their existence. Touch them. Climb them. Hold them. Harvest their fruit. Drink in their color. Be in community with them. Then do what you can to be conscious of their situation at the hands of humanity. Perhaps your connection and love will be enough to help protect them and support conscious management to insure their glorious survival…
Taken from the E-
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