One touch of nature

Trees are beautiful, magical, giants. Whatever the season, they are a wonderful source of inspiration and solace. As Shakespeare wrote, ‘one touch of nature makes the whole world kin.’ 

I always feel moved to see buds emerging on the trees at this time of year. It makes me realise that even during the darkest, coldest days of winter, the trees were still there all along — staunch and steadfast, sleeping and dreaming. 

Recently, I visited one of my favourite spots; a shady corner in a peaceful graveyard, surrounded by gently nodding snowdrops. From the other side of a flint wall, I could hear horses munching. For the first time in months, I could feel actual warmth in the rays of sun that showered down between the twisted branches that hung overhead. 

Later, I read a Charles Dickens quote online: 

“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”

Well, of course, I couldn’t have put it better myself. I thought we had turned a corner.

And then, the following day,  I woke up to heavy, dark skies, hanging low like a leaden frown rolling out across all the land. Mean-spirited rain spat against the window and the black, naked trees outside clawed at the clouds.

‘Can’t find any willpower today,’ posted a friend on Facebook. ‘Only won’t power.’ I smirked, and nodded in agreement. 

We are — we hope — exiting a turbulent winter that has been extra tough for many. We can feel the sap is rising, and yet it is still not quite here. 

But then I look up from my desk and see that the cherry tree outside my window is already frothing with early-flowering blossom. As the sun illuminates the delicate petals, I can almost hear them singing, ‘spring always follows winter.’

Stay faithful, friends! 

‘Starry Hill’. Click on image for more info.

‘Sun Trees’. Click on image for more info.