Planting a tree . . . expresses, through nature, hope for the future, comfort
for the present, and a special remembrance and connection to the past.
A Tree for Every Family
e find ourselves in the month of June, a time for weddings, graduations, fair
weather — and for honoring fathers. These are the dear ones in our lives who hopefully
have given us a sense of stability and strength, and who have provided our
families with a place to form our roots. In many ways, fathers are the trees of
our lives, and, like trees, they are strong, yet soft.
Trees possess qualities that we associate with the masculine. They are often
towering above us, providing shade and protection from the elements. They give
of themselves, offering their physicality, enabling us to build homes and
tools. Yet these beings also possess feminine qualities: fruits for
nourishment, oxygen for breath, beauty for the soul. It is this balance that
most reminds us of what a father can truly be: generous, nurturing and
protective — together representing what the leader of a family or the most noble of the
plant world expresses.
As we know, these things don't just happen. Time, energy and care all take their
part in creating a being that in turn can provide for its ecosystem or family.
Like the nurturing of a child who has the potential of developing into a
father, the nurturing of a seedling that can become a mighty oak is no small
task. With proper intent, nutrition and protection, the end result can be a
productive member of society or of a forest that can not only take an active
part in day-to-day living, but also provide for the future, whether as soil in
the decaying of a downed tree or lessons passed on to future generations of
children who are the legacy of a father.
In the spirit of honoring our fathers this June, I propose the planting of a
tree. This simple act expresses, through nature, hope for the future, comfort
for the present, and a special remembrance and connection to the past.
Generations of sons and daughters, parents and grandparents — even all other relatives and loved ones — can be honored by opening our Mother Earth and planting a tree, which reaches
toward Father Sky. This art has been repeated for centuries, enabling humans to
celebrate their connection to our green planet and our families.
In addition to the obvious benefits of food, shelter, oxygen and shade — all physical realities — the tree also has historically provided inspiration for poetry, feelings of
security, and a place for spirit to reside. These aspects are also ingredients
for truly happy family life. The combination of the masculine and feminine is
exalted in the family as it is in the tree — constantly striving for balance to weather the stresses of daily life. What
better symbol of our strength, dreams and trust
in the future could there be?
In our locale, which can be dry, windy and harsh, there are a few simple
techniques to take into consideration when planting. First of all, select a
plant that can handle the New Mexico environment; the locust, oak and species
of plum are proven, hardy candidates. The next consideration should be
location. Decide if the roots need to be shaded, like those of the aspen, or
whether the ultimate size of the tree will help or hinder your property. For
example, don't plant a cottonwood too close to your house.
Now, dig a hole wider than it is deep to allow for healthy root growth. Add a
water-holding material such as compost and a bit of fertilizer into the bottom
of the hole for a jump-start. A good first soaking then regular watering,
including over the winter, will have you off and growing.
Finally, the last ingredient necessary to raising a tree or a family is love. A
watchful eye, careful pruning and a nurturing environment are the vital
components for a whole, healthy and balanced outcome. Honor the father and
honor the planet, and the whole world becomes a better place to live. Trees,
like children, can grow to become strong. There is much honor to be had here;
this is the Father's Day intention.
!
On Saturday, June 14, at 10:00 a.m. at Tropic of Capricorn, Michael will be
offering a free lecture on trees and tree planting for the Santa Fe area. Space
is limited so try to arrive a bit early.
