Of Leaves and Branches

Of leaves and branches:

it would be impossible to choose a favorite type of tree, each one offers such beauty and unique qualities only found in their particular branches. Every tree, regardless of type, shows its own individual gift that will capture our attention and imagination if we simply give it notice. As a child I was fascination by the white bark and texture of birch trees, having read of a natural oil it produced and being perfect kindling if a campfire was ever needed. During the great depression I had an uncle who operated a still for this oil and used it to support his family for heating and cooking. Beech trees too stood out with their bark, smooth white in contrast to their leaves that seemed to hold the deepest green in narrow strips. Of course willows would always be an attraction, more rare for me to see and I would have to travel to pond and streams to find them. My childhood belonged to woods and the adventures they held, exploring woodlots that seemed a wilderness to me then, and even now beckon for my time.

everyday I make a point to join them,

seeking company of leaves and branches.

knowing that they heal.

these days, it seems the Black walnut tree grabs for my attention, scattered through my neighborhood and throughout the local woods, standing out by its tall rise and spread of…