Thank you trees.
Thank you for the air we breathe, the houses we live in, the fires that keep us warm.
Thank you for the endless creativity you offer in your diversity, and thank you for the continuous inspiration.
Thank you for the homes you provide for the animals, for shade on a hot day.
Thank you for the fruit and nuts you willingly share,
Thank you for rubber from your sap and fiber from your bark.
Thank you for all the medicines you provide.
Thank you for the gathering places created by your branches.
Thank you for teaching us how to reach for the stars while staying true to our roots.
Thank you for teaching us balance.
Thank you for teaching us how to climb, swing, and dangle, and for reminding us to play.
Thank you for reminding us that there are things bigger than us.
Based on a poem by Michael McMillan
Reflect:
Trees are part of our everyday lives, yet it’s easy to take them for granted. They are all around us, quietly doing good things for others, such as those mentioned in the poem above.
Indigenous cultures around the world revere trees, some referring to them as “grandmothers.” Others honor them as symbols of life, a foundation and strength for all that exist. In some cultures, tree roots signify a connection to ancestors while the branches represent future generations. For others, trees contain wisdom and knowledge passed down by the Creator. Many believe that trees possess souls and can communicate with other living beings through their roots and branches. Now, science has shown us that at least the communication piece is true. I wonder what else we don’t yet know about them?
Planting a tree is for many an act of selflessness. You may never see that tree reach maturity, or even early adulthood. You may never enjoy its shade or fruit. Yet planting a tree is an act of faith, of trust in creation and in God that the tree will grow to provide a home and services for others.
Act:
Walk outside or look out your window, and take a moment to think about the trees in your life. Consider what they do for you: Do they provide you with food? shelter? shade? Are there animals that live in them whom you enjoy watching, or even eat? Now look up at the tops of the trees, to appreciate their height and strength.
When you have taken some time to appreciate your tree neighbors, please reread the poem above. Have you gained any more appreciation for the trees in your life?
Pray:
Thank you, God, for trees and the amazing work accomplished through them. Help us to never pass another without hearing it sing your praise.