Being with Trees

Indian Banyan Tree

A bird feeding on a fruit from a tree

Imagine a life without trees,

I believe that many will find it difficult to contemplate such a situation with ease,

From birth to death there is no other species that’s involved with a person’s life,

A land without trees is definitely a place of endless strife.

In many cultures the sacred groves have a special place,

Ficus religiosa is the scientific name for a revered tree species,

For ages humans connected some trees with spirituality,

Now science also supports the belief that their presence is good for physical wellbeing and mental stability,

A viewer’s mind flutters like butterflies after watching the vibrant array,

Ripe fruits, colourful flowers, variegated leaves and their fragrance can bring joy in the beholder’s mind with their display,

It is great to observe trees in different regions,

It is interesting to watch them during various seasons,

You may notice the trees and their different moods,

Many won’t forget the exhilarating feeling while walking in the woods,

Remember those swinging, climbing, lazing and foraging moments in childhood,

A stroll in the woods will make you feel good,

It’s sad that currently many in the younger generation are missing that connect,

It is the duty of the elders to introduce them to nature with immediate effect,

Feeling the bark and smelling the flowers and fruits,

It is essential for human beings to get in touch with their roots,

There are lessons that trees can teach,

Patience and benevolence are the qualities they preach,

Trees support various ecosystems,

Various life forms depend on flora for their existence,

After germination trees are sources for fodder and in death they turn into good manure,

In between they also provide habitats for countless creatures; who look forward to a promising future,

The symbiotic relationship the woods have with tiny fungi,

Tells a story that’s more than what meets the eye,

Many mysteries these trees hold are yet to be discovered,

So is the traditional knowledge about them that needs to be studied with fervour,

Trees are amazing living beings,

They communicate, defend and propagate through various fascinating means,

Instead of emphasis on greenery as mere good scenery,

Try to promote the native species and learn their importance in the location’s ecology,

Don’t disregard these immovable nature’s benevolent providers as expendables,

Protecting them is more sensible for humans to stay out of cataclysmic troubles… 

© Nishand Venugopal. All rights reserved.