Advice From A Tree

I often read this poem, savoring each line like a bite of luscious chocolate silk pie, whenever my resilience wanes. For it gently nudges me from my wearisome daily existence and self imposed tensions, asking that I remember, as Pierre Teilhard de Chardin so poignantly stated, “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.”

Below is the poem in it’s entirety, written by the gifted Ilan Shamir, author, artist, storyteller, environmentalist, and avid nature lover. In short, my kind of guy. Enjoy!

 

Dear Friend,
Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth
Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings
Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring
The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall
The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter
Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.
Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light
Be content with your natural beauty
Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots
Enjoy the view!

                               -Ilan Shamir

May you feel peace on this day,