Week 3 - Guardian of the Forest

We’ve all heard the cliche saying “if walls could talk,” but personally I’ve always found the idea of animated plaster, brick, and stone creepy. What would be fascinating though is if trees, particularly willows, could impart their wisdom gleaned from years, decades, even centuries of witnessing the world go about its business. Willow trees are the hub of life and activity in their domain. What would I give for a bird’s eye view from their rich boughs? How many lovers, solitary seekers of answers, humming wildlife, and so much more have taken refuge in their private curtains? Willows are the protectors - the guardians of the forest, for which they have always held a special place in my heart.

Willows have historically been acclaimed for their medicinal properties, sacred religious value, and natural importance. They are mentioned in ancient Egyptian and Greek texts as a remedy for aches, fever, and general pain. I particularly remember in Pocahontas, a classic Disney movie we all might recall fondly from our childhood, how Pocahontas gave John “Grandmother Willow’s” bark to “help with the pain” from his gunshot wound. The role of wise counselor (hence, the “Grandmother”) played by the willow tree in that beloved movie left a deep impression on me. She, the willow, is always providing wisdom and direction to Pocahontas throughout her journey. Similarly, it is cited as having sacred properties and purposes in several religions, such as Judaism, Buddhism, and Wiccan. Also, willows are often planted along stream and river banks to prevent erosion because of their strong root systems. They are a bedrock of strength, wisdom, and carry that alluring aura of magic.