Favorite Tree.

I woke up this morning and they were cutting down our favorite tree from the empty field behind us.  It must have taken decades for the tree to reach this height and breadth and beauty and in a few short hours it was a stump. It was the home of jungle birds of extraordinary colors and sounds. One time, our neighbor hung a tire swing from it and the children came to play there. In the evenings, we angled our chairs to face this picturesque sight. Now, it's all gone.
So, in honor of the fallen tree, I'd like to share with you two lovely thoughts.
*** 

The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a
green thing that stands in the way. Some see Nature all ridicule and
deformity, and some scarce see Nature at all. But to the eyes of the
man of imagination, Nature is Imagination itself.

- William Blake, 1799, The Letters

***
Advice from a Tree
By Ilan Shamir

Dear Friend,

Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth
Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings
Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring
The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall
The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter

Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.
Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light

Be content with your natural beauty
Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots

Enjoy the view!
****

goodbye tree...
XOXO,
sassy

(image:flickr)