Trees herald the Seasons

Summary

The author reflects on the rhythm of nature and human life, noting the reliability of seasonal changes as a stabilizing force amidst environmental and societal shifts.

Abstract

The article "Trees herald the Seasons" is a contemplative piece that draws parallels between the cyclical nature of the seasons and the discipline of maintaining a routine in daily life. The author, inspired by a nature prompt, shares personal anecdotes of their daily activities and the importance of timing. Despite changes in climate and the modernization of timekeeping, the author finds comfort in the consistent seasonal behaviors of trees, which serve as a reminder of the passage of time. The article also references a story about salmon migration and another on birdwatching, emphasizing the connection between nature's timeliness and human emotional well-being.

Opinions

The author believes in the importance of routine and punctuality, viewing them as essential for a disciplined life.
There is a sense of nostalgia for the traditional markers of time, such as the ticking of an old grandfather clock, which have been replaced by modern, less audible timekeeping methods.
The author appreciates the predictability of seasonal changes, particularly in the behavior of trees, as a reassuring constant in a changing world.
The author expresses concern over the changing climate, noting the absence of expected weather patterns like April showers and crunchy autumn leaves.
The author finds inspiration and serenity in nature, as evidenced by their enjoyment of birdwatching and the emotional impact of a blackbird's song.
The author encourages readers to engage with nature and suggests that it can provide a sense of stability and emotional connection, as seen in their recommendation of related stories by other authors.

A rumination on the stability of time

Photograph is by the author

They say there is a time for everything.

A time to live and die, laugh and cry

to paraphrase a song lyric from a group called The Byrds.

It is time to answer a nature prompt. I haven’t written about nature in a while and I am in nature every day so it seems fitting I answer this prompt.

I was walking into town. As I walked in rhythm with my thoughts, I began to ruminate on the things I do in a timely fashion. Every day I walk, cycle, garden, do sit-ups write and read with the occasional day off.

When things happen on time they add a certain rhythm to our lives. This timeliness creates a disciplined life. I used to practise this when a young mum. I would plan my day accordingly, being sure to get things done. This routine worked for me.

It’s time

I would tell myself, and still do.

It seems to work for nature too. Every year trees sprout leaves in spring and shed them in the autumn. I look forward to the seasons even though they are short, and shorter now than ever.

It seems that time ticks over on the clock regardless of behaviour. And yet, things are a bit different. For one thing clocks no longer tick like that old grandfather clock in my grandad’s hall.

And we don’t have the April showers that we used to, and the leaves don’t always crunch in autumn now that we have the rain too.

The seasons are unrecognisable, certainly in the UK, almost, except for the trees. They, mostly, obey the old ways of the seasons. And I still listen out for the blackbird that will sometimes serenade me on summer evenings on top of the old birch tree stirring my emotions.

I was inspired to write this in answer to the recent prompt by Sahil Patel on ‘Reciprocal’, by this wonderful story all about the timely habits of salmon, by Akemi Sagawa: How Salmon Navigate Back Home.

I also enjoyed reading this very much:

The above story from Sanghita Pal is so amazing. Do read it.

A rumination on the stability of time

Finding Serenity and Joy: The Delightful Emotions of Birdwatching

Nature Prompt: Third Week of August

Nature’s Silent Sentries Enduring Beauty, Resilience and Strength

Reciprocal Nature prompt response: Evergreen Leaves