Saturday, July 21, 2018

How to See a Tree



During childhood, I spent most of my free time in trees. Climbing into a 30-foot magnolia provided my view of nature's magic. Butterflies visited along with ladybugs. Ants left trails to follow.

I escaped from my bedroom window by climbing down a jacaranda. A eucalpytus tree grew from three trunks that enclosed a space for hiding. My body fit with just my head peeking out. Oak trees also invited my climbing adventures. I adorned my friends with ribbons, balloons, and flags.

Pine trees coated me with sap. Apple, citrus, fig, and avocado trees provided treats. I marveled at the aromas and tastes. All seasons revealed opportunities to investigate the bounty of wood near my home.

Because of my friendship with trees, I believed they never died. I watched them transformed into doors, furniture, sculptures, and stationery. I collected decorated boxes that opened with a rush of scent.

Have you ever paid attention to a tree?

How to See a Tree

At first light, three men entered the forest.
The axeman downed a tree riddled by insects
seeing it worth only fire wood.
The logger brought a chainsaw with greed in his smile.
He would sell lumber and make a fortune.
The woodsman searched all day
playing fingers over bark and limbs.
His nostrils filled with scent of tree,
he honed planks suitable for
instruments whose living notes
might please a weary world.

Describe a childhood experience in nature that provided insights.



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