Tree Apparel
I relate tree’s apparel
its leaves
to tree’s true feelings
in all four seasons
trees in winter
have lost their leaves
but not their life force
trees are compelled
to shed their apparel
in the cold
proudly show off their structure
their beauty their power
their magical world
for all to see
as spring descends
buds sprout tiny delicate
moss green leaflets
lively bright colored flowers
trees still look elegant
still happy
still magical
in the warmer weather
minimal covering of authentic life
but gradually leaves grow
into a deep forest green
completely cover the branches
summer reigns
apparel takes over
trees have lost their life force
in the heat
very dark very
almost despondent mood
until fall approaches
after a brilliant show of color
trees happily drop their leaves
shed their apparel
disregard the cold
get ready for winter spectacle
bring armature back to life
so strong
so happy
so excited
in their glory
a mystical world
through an underground
network of roots and soil fungi
trees perceive and interact with environment
share water and nutrients
communicate their needs
in cooperative ways
have intelligence
store memories
send distress signals
respond to attacks
trees are social beings
support each other
have a consciousness
similar to humans
have a positive effect
on our emotions
Tree Apparel collage
Art and photos by Sheila Benedis