PROUD TO BE A HUGGER OF TREES

Throughout my life, I’ve always loved trees. I see how they grow in two ways, down into the darkness of the soil, and up into the lightness of the sky. I want to be like that. There are many wondrous trees in our neighborhood here in Seattle…and I reckon, wherever you live, as well. I read once that hugging a tree can lower blood pressure, so, I apply the science, and hug three trees every day…three large and stately sweetgum trees which I’ve dubbed Mother, Father, and Brother after my departed family members. I hug them and pray for whatever pops into my head and heart in the moment.

One day, as I approached them for my usual hug, I saw yellow notices crudely pegged to their barkskins, notices that said these trees were going to be removed, due to a danger to the public. I sobbed. No, I said, and ran home to tell my partner about the news. No, she said, and got to work right away, researching, and contacting other tree people throughout our neighborhood. Right away I wrote to the church at the top of our hill; they, the custodians of these trees needed to know that others did not agree with this arboreal diagnosis and were willing to meet with them and discuss. We were desirous of another opinion.

This church is a good one, and does lots of great things in our neighborhood, so it was unsettling to hear back from them that the decision was made and no meeting was needed. Again, we beseeched them to at least hear us, and let us speak for the trees…much-loved, generous beings who shaded us during these increasingly hot summers. It took a month of thorough research, patient organizing, delicate activism, and community support - to secure a meeting with the leadership of the church, to present our case. We offered assistance and asked for a second opinion. They granted our wish. I’m delighted to say that the second opinion came in that the trees are healthy, and that care, not removal, is indicated.

So…if you care about our natural world, my suggestion --- don’t just let someone else make a rash decision about whether a tree or a frog or a body of water has the right to live. We must speak up. Our trees are standing proof.

 

Photo Credit: Homepage: Cris and Holly Miranda at Fantasy Studios: Irene Young 2017