Saturday, September 16, 2017
Celine and I taught together for many years at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School in Amherstview. Teacher friends share a lot of emotions together, spend a lot of time together, speak their own language, complain together, share interests and support and understand each other like only teacher friends can. Celine and I retired within a year of each other and continued to enjoy a friendship outside of the classroom. I have the poem "Advice From A Tree" in a place where I can read it over and over again. Celine often came to mind as I did and our shared love of gardening, of walks in nature, and of birds and flowers and trees. For the past four years when Celine was dealing with cancer, she was adamant about not being defined by it or its consequences. She stood "tall" and proud and I'd like to share this poem and its message in her honour. Advice from a Tree Stand Tall and Proud Sink your roots deeply into the Earth Reflect the light of a greater source Think long term Go out on a limb Remember your place among all living beings Embrace with joy the changing seasons For each yields its own abundance The Energy and Birth of Spring The Growth and Contentment of Summer The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter Feel the wind and the sun And delight in their presence Look up at the moon that shines down upon you And the mystery of the stars at night. Seek nourishment from the good things in life Simple pleasures Earth, fresh air, light Be content with your natural beauty Drink plenty of water Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes Be flexible Remember your roots Enjoy the view! By Ilan Shamir
