Monday, January 18, 2010

If Trees Had Souls

If God had given trees souls, I don't think their souls would be found in the loveliness of their spring flowers and budding leaves, or even in the magnificent glory of their colorful fall foliage. If, indeed, trees had souls, I think they would be found in their roots -- the roots that anchor them to the earth and keep them straight and nurture them as they grow.

I love taking pictures of trees, and have discovered that sometimes the twisted and tangled roots of a tree are more interesting and just as beautiful as its flowers and foliage. Here are a few pictures from my collection which, I think, illustrate this perfectly.

Tangled roots of an old magnolia tree located on the grounds of the Old Court House Museum in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

More magnolia roots ...

I captured these huge roots of an old oak tree in an antebellum neighborhood in Natchez, Mississippi.

I found these moss-covered roots on the side of a road in Vicksburg.

The roots of this old magnolia tree, located in the National Cemetery inside the Vicksburg National Military Park, embrace grave markers of soldiers who died during the Siege of Vicksburg.

I love the roots of this magnificent Gingko tree, also located in the cemetery of the Military Park. The tree is approximately 240 years old, based on the size of its trunk.

This picture, which was taken during winter, gives us a glimpse of what the roots of a tree look like underground. It amazes me that trees can live with their roots exposed like that, but those are, indeed, alive and struggling to hold on to their tentative grasp of the soil crumbing around them.

After looking at these pictures, perhaps you can understand why I say, "If trees had souls, you could find them in their roots."

5 comments:

RachelD said...

They have limbs, roots, branches, tendrils, leaves, a heart, a trunk; they give us food and shelter and refuge and warmth---I like to think something so welcoming and kind to mankind and all the little creatures DOES have a soul.

I DO know they laugh.

Deb said...

you are a girl after my own heart..I love root and tree photos...they have such character...you just wonder about the history...

Anonymous said...

Morning Janie! I've told you before I love trees but I totally agree that the roots are sometimes the most interesting; the more tangled for me the better! Your new header picture is fascinating! I find when shopping for a plant or tree for the yard I'm looking at the trunk before the foliage!!! I hope you are doing well and having a great winter! Soon your camera will be showing us all the pretty blooms to go along with the trees!lol can't wait - tired of winter!lol Off to see what I've missed - Have a fun day - Sincerely, Jeannette

Tonja said...

These magnificent trees and their tenacious roots are amazing! It fill me with a feeling that I cann't quite explain. I feel almost like weeping, but not really! Souls? I am sure! How else could they have such an affect on people?

Thank you for this experience today! God is the Master Artist, and His Works Declare His Glory!

ds said...

Janie,
Again, your photographic skills and artful eye for seeing the potential for beauty in everything shines bright in your images of these trees. You capture the soul of them by looking at them through your self. You are so talented. But, I also know that your passion for what you are doing and who you are inside is what makes your work so outstanding. It reveals and reflects the inner you.
Love you,
Your "sister" Dorothy