The Stand of Trees

[dvetter]

Prayer of the Woods
I am the heat of your hearth on the cold winter nights, the friendly shade screening you from the summer sun, and my fruits are refreshing draughts quenching your thirst as you journey on.
I am the beam that holds your house, the board of your table, the bed on which you lie, and the timber that builds your boat.
I am the handle of your hoe, the door of your homestead, the wood of your cradle, and the shell of your coffin.
I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty. 'Ye who pass by, listen to my prayer: Harm me not.

This prayer has been used in the Portuguese forest preservations for more than 1,000 years.

[Jill H]

this is a really lovely photo - and the words are fitting and something we should all think about - the wonder of trees. TFS

[leonaashlee]

Thank you Duane...I have such a love of trees and I appreciate the sentiment...lovely shot.

[martha36]

Beautiful shot, Duane. The contrast of the stark trees and the swirly grey clouds is really nice. And I love the wintry colors. And the words to go with it. Thanks for sharing!

[pjflan7]

looks great and I bet it would look just as good if not better in black and white

[vimalkv]

Duane this is a Lovely shot....Love the composition...TFS

[Preacherman]

Reminds me of the Cree Indian Prophecy Duane, which I have on one of my pictures at home:

When all the trees have been cut down,
when all the animals have been hunted,
when all the waters are polluted,
when all the air is unsafe to breathe,
only then will you discover you cannot eat money.
~ Cree Prophecy ~

Will we ever learn?
PAUL

[beachcomber]

I defy anyone to walk through a forest of trees and not wonder at their beauty, good work and good commentary Duane

[Christi V]

very beautiful !!!

[bascott]

Beautiful picture and prayer, thanks Duane!