A Minyan of Trees

Dear Friends,

Many years ago when I was saying kaddish for my beloved uncle I began davening with the trees. Each morning I would go to the woods, find a place to stand by the creek, then count ten trees, making a minyan as I entered into prayer. I found so much comfort in the trees' presence, and their gracious reminder that I was not alone. I continue this practice of davening with the trees to this day. 

The following is a poem I wrote as I was beginning the practice. I have shared it over the years and do so again on this week of Tu B'Shevat as we pause to celebrate and give thanks for the gifts of the trees.

A Minyan of Trees

The woods are white. 
Hills and paths frozen with snow.
Trees rising from hard ground
Stand strong and sure.
Dark brown trunks greet my heart,
Branches reach
Making intricate patterns in the gray sky.
In these winter woods
So much is revealed.
I lift my eyes and count ten trees,
They are my minyan. 
Despair, fear, anger
Rise within me.
Bitterness threatens my prayers.

I reach for a tree
And breathe its presence and trust.
I lean my body against its trunk and close my eyes.

And for a moment I feel the One.
I feel the One within my raw, vulnerable life.

I feel the One made manifest in trees, earth, water and sky.
I feel the One here, present
And for a moment the bitterness becomes sweet.

My prayers meander
As the strong branches dance in the wind.
We are here, the trees whisper
You are not alone.

 I close my davening by bowing
In gratitude to the trees
And asking to be guided
By their generosity and wisdom.

Blessings for Tu B'Shevat. May we be guided by the blessings trees so generously bestow.

With love,
Rabbi Yael