^{This is a poem I read at the 100,000 Welcomes fundraiser in Lebanon, Ohio.
The theme was ‘Rooted in Faith’ based on Jeremiah 17:7-8}

Prophets and sages extol
the wisdom, the resilience of trees.
Liminal beings reaching to Heaven
and far into Earth,
stronger growing together.

Living as community,
creating ecosystems,
mycorrhizal,
where connection sustains
through cycles of seasons.

Every contribution needed,
necessary.
Each generation nurturing
those before and after.
Life increased
through reciprocity.

We do well to heed exhortations
to turn toward the ways of trees:
Establishing deep roots connecting us,
generating mutuality,
creating beauty and abundance,
whatever lies ahead.