Trees have long been especially meaningful to me. Blame rote memory of Joyce Kilmer in third grade or maybe it was the Christmas tree we planted as a teen–trees speak to me.
This week the neighbors two doors down cut down a favorite pine tree–as was their right . . . but we have been sad about this loss. It had to be over 100 ft tall, planted 70+ years ago by the home’s first family. Imagine how many childhood adventures that tree witnessed through the years. Forts, swings, picnics. Imagine how many critters have housed or sheltered in her boughs.
In my recent Tampa workshop, The Yellow Brick Road to Brain Health, I presented the addition of family history to the non-modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and Related Dementia. Along with genetics and age, family history is something we cannot change. Our family tree comes into play both in genetics and history.
Much like the harvested neighbor tree, my family has seen many good and bad times. We solemnly recognized two birthdays of patriarchs who are no longer with us this week July 8 & 9. I wondered as I heard the tree fall, if my sadness was related to my dad and my brother-in-law’s birthdays. Two heroes who sheltered and shared 70+ years shaping our family history in indelible ways. Standing strong when we were floundering, always there for a conversation about life. Go-to’s for any of life storms–evergreen for us.
Take a moment to recognize your trees, both those with bark and skin. Maybe they are not your father or in your yard, but consider the wider perspective when looking. Seek them for rest when things are rough, for beauty when you slow down to witness and for shade when things feel too hot.
