Connecting with a 600 Year Old Bald Cypress

This is a 600 year old Bald Cypress located at the Riverside Nature Center in Kerrville Texas.  The Bald Cypress is a tree that is native to North America and can live to be over 1000 years old. 

I yearn to understand the history of ancient trees.  What can we learn by connecting to the species?  What are the stories they can share if we only take the time and set the intention to listen?  Imagine the events that have occurred during the lifetime of this tree: the many other trees, animals, birds, insects, fish, molds and lichens that have been a part of this ecosystem.  Yet, through it all, the amazing species still stands majestically.  This tree is lucky to be part of a nature reserve, where some people who care, visit to show their respect for the species.  Many others go unnoticed.  How can we encourage more people to make a connection?

I have been reading the book, The Spirit of Trees: Science, Symbiosis and Inspiration by Fred Hageneder.  The book explores the relationship between humanity and trees, in terms of the trees natural assets, mankind's cultural interpretations of the forest, interpretations of the forest and specific tree sprcies, and the ability to inspire, soothe and sustain humankind.  Unfortunately, the Bald Cypress was not one of the trees profiled in the book.  Alternatively, the Tree Totem site has an interesting description of the folklore and spiritual essence of this species.  I highly recommend both of these resources for an alternative perspective on many tree species that goes beyond the typical scientific descriptions we are used to reading. 

Comments

[JoanMaxwell26]

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[Laura]

Stopping by from the festival of the trees - enjoyable post - great tree!

I like the tree totem site also.