The flame tree makes the transition so comforting. Its scarlet flowers are opening fast, before the leaves have dropped. At no stage does the tree stand bare and cold. And in addition, the flowers with their sweet nectar have enticed the tuis back across the water. I see their gleaming black bodies flying in and out of the tree, and hopping amidst the branches as they happily feed.
With the tuis comes their song. And so the tree gives me continuity, fiery pleasure, as well as singing to me from morning till night. I am reminded of the Chinese proverb:
Keep a green tree in your heart, and perhaps the singing bird will come.
4 comments:
I love the proverb....thank you. I am missing our Tuis. I suspect they are feeding off the flowering Red Gums at the moment.
I don't think we get Flame trees down this way. Are they are a sub-tropical variety?
I have found some of your books in our public library. I have borrowed "Dancing with the Seasons" and "Growing into Wisdom." The latter looks immensely helpful as I wrestle with midlife change and personal transformation......more synchronicities:-)
Lynley, I think the flame tree might be sub-tropical. Nice to hear of you finding my books. Growing into Wisdom has just had its second reprint and the boxes arrived on Monday. It seems to keep on selling as more and more people reach that midlife transition stage. I hope you enjoy your reading.
Thank you for the proverb, Juliet. I am writing it in my book of quotes and sayings, a commonplace book of sorts that I keep nearby me.
I envy you your flame tree. What a beautiful gift of nature to take you through the winter months.
thanks Penny; yes it's a lovely quote isn't it? I collect quotes too, and at different times have put them into a book.The flame tree is a treasure. If I ever live somewhere else I think I'll have to plant one.
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