Hey you! I’m currently teaching at a primary school which is next to a TAFE with a large field of grass. On this field is a huge tree, a Moreton Bay Fig I think, which I go and connect with each lunch time as part of my daily mindful ritual. I walk slowly up to this majestic tree, gently stroke the trunk and thank the tree out loud for its wisdom and vast root system, which benefits all those other trees in its vicinity. I didn’t really know that what I was doing was a ‘thing’ until I picked up a copy of this month’s Lion’s Roar magazine. According to Lin Wang Gordon, tree meditation is a way to strengthen our connection with nature and deepen our understanding of difficult emotions. Apparently, spending time with a tree, with attention and reverence, can be beneficial. Somehow, my higher self must have known! Trees are the largest and oldest living things on earth. I love them. At this festive time of year, pine trees take the limelight. Did you know that the tradition of decorating an evergreen conifer originated in Germany? Then German nobility spread the practice throughout Europe and in 1800 Queen Charlotte introduced a Christmas tree at a children’s party. This, I learned from the advent calendar on this beautiful e-card website by Jacquie Lawson.
This morning as we rode our bikes along the bike paths of leafy Brisbane, I felt so grateful for all the trees that came into view. Gums, pines and a so many I can’t label. All I know is that they are precious and sustain us. Trees are the lungs of our planet, purifying the air we breathe. As we walked along the Bowen Bridge Heritage Track, I even saw a sign dedicated to trees. I couldn’t resist climbing up a tree trunk and resting in its branches. So, here’s to trees and their gentle reminder to stay rooted and grounded as we go about our daily lives. My poem, Strangers, says: That’s the whole point of connecting with trees. To escape from the gadgets and sense how it frees. If we don’t take some time to relax, go within, then our lives become hectic. Just one crazy spin.
As you wander around the shops this season, amongst the hustle and bustle of Christmas, remember the kind tree, and its wise sense of stillness which too is within us.
Take care. Best wishes, Jen
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