Let us celebrate life, growth, and the beauty of the turning seasons. And let’s remember to keep our heart and mind open to allow good things to come in. As the Chinese proverb goes: “If you keep a green tree in your heart, perhaps the singing bird will come.” The Jewish holiday Tu B’shevat begins today at sundown. It is a holiday that marks the birthday of the trees. To get into the holiday spirit, I’d like to share the poem Advice from a Tree, which is one of my favorite poems. I received it beautifully printed and framed as a gift, and it seems to captures all the advice I’ll ever need as learned from the wisdom of a tree.
Advice from a Tree
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! ~ Ilan Shamir
Let us celebrate life, growth, and the beauty of the turning seasons. And let’s remember to keep our heart and mind open to allow good things to come in. As the Chinese proverb goes: “If you keep a green tree in your heart, perhaps the singing bird will come.”
