I enter this forest the same way I would enter a temple,
With reverence.
Trees that live here have witnessed countless generations.
They existed long before me and will remain after my body's last breath.
This forest of cedar trees is a sacred space that represents a connection to the divine.
Cedar serves as a bridge between the spiritual and physical worlds.
Almost without thinking,
I find myself adorning the forest with painted medallions.
Each one is a symbol of connection,
A spark of awakening or a heartfelt wish for healing.
As I tie them to the branches,
I imagine myself as a bridge,
Inviting the cedar to weave its quiet magic.
In the cedar's realm,
Distance dissolves.
Messages travel on the breath of wind,
On the songs of birds,
Through flowing water and tangled roots.
I feel this deeply,
Drawing inspiration from indigenous North American traditions,
Where cedar is cherished for its spiritual power in ceremonies and healing.
Cedar wood resists decay,
Standing as a symbol of wisdom and immortality in ancient cultures,
Such as the Sumerians and Egyptians,
Who shaped it into sacred object and wove it into their most important rituals.
I find comfort in knowing that,
Even after my final breath,
A part of me will linger in this forest.
Each time I attach a medallion,
I notice how many already dance in the wind.
Each one carries a unique intention,
Bringing a sense of interconnection.
Every ornament refers to a person,
A moment,
A heartbeat,
Represented in this manifestation.
This brings me comfort on more difficult days.
Walking through this magical forest rejuvenates me and boosts my sense of purpose.
Trees are quiet healers of our world.
I honor their sacrifices they have made since humanity's earliest days.
Even as we cut,
Burn and exploit them,
They persist in silent generosity,
Gifting us clean air.
They are our gentle companions and I feel our unity.
