Trees are sanctuaries

by Michael Smith (Veshengro)

Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth. They do not preach learning and precepts, they preach undeterred by particulars, the ancient law of life. - Hermann Hesse, Wandering

While some people may consider that somewhat an eco-pseudo-religious comment but so be it. Hermann Hesse, as far as I am concerned, is right in this and Bernard of Clairvaux said that “trees and stones will teach you what you will learn from no master.

In fact, Bernard of Clairvaux had a lot more to say on what forests and their trees, and Nature in general, can teach us, also about the divine.

Trees have an aura that can calm the spirit and soul if we approach them in the right way and they can, indeed, teach us much, as, as St. Bernard stated. More than any teacher ever will be able to.

This is not, as some may wish to make out, worshipping Creation rather than the Creator. It is, in the same way as it was for St Bernard, worshipping the Divine through the Creation.

Trees are our friends and have been since time immemorial. They have provided the wood for our fires, the first tools and weapons and much, much more. Aside from that they are great sages and we do well to stop and listen to them.

© 2012