This tree is my friend. It seamlessly fits along the wall of my son’s school and has kept me company when I waited to pick him up. Of course, I was the kind of Mom who’d land up half an hour early with a book so I could spend a pleasant few minutes reading. Sometimes I’d just watch the kids on the playground, which was on the other side of this wall.
On those days, I always felt this tree could hear me talk. Oh yes, I practice self-talk–we can all do with some expert advice, right? Sometimes I am audible, and this amuses people. Doesn’t stop me though.
There were days when I felt it would respond to me, by flapping its branches gently in the breeze or even dropping a leaf on me to give me a sign. When I was small and went for walks with my Mom, she made me believe that each time a leaf fell on my head it was a sign of being blessed. I continue to be convinced by this.
I always felt that this tree looked like it was lounging on the wall, arms along the sides looking in on the other side.
Maybe it wanted to join the kids and play?
Maybe it wanted to go to school too?
Maybe it wished it was a human being?
I like that the school did a humane thing by building the wall around the tree, allowing t to fit snugly there, roots firmly planted on the ground.
My son’s stint at the school lasted from the 1st to 12th grade, yet I remember every plant, every progress, every upgrade to the campus, thanks to the memories captured via my camera.
This tree definitely belongs in my happy photo album of memories. It has helped my imagination run wild.
♥
I am joining Parul for ThursdayTreeLove which happens every alternate Thursday.
18 comments
Such a beautiful story and the tree that snuggles the wall. This can happen only in this part of India. Another reason why I love the South of India 🙂 I loved how you said you have seen progress through these many years.
Thank you, Vidya for joining! 🙂
My pleasure, Parul! The school has undergone so many changes, yet this tree just stands there, as if it is a witness. Thank you for hosting this. I look forward to being a regular from now!
Vidya Sury recently posted…No Mud, No Lotus #GratitudeCircle
Great!
This tree reminds me of Lord Ganesha, especially the portion on the wall- they look like Lord Ganesha’s ears & face…
Have a wonderful weekend!
So sweet! Thanks Anita! You too!
Vidya Sury recently posted…No Mud, No Lotus #GratitudeCircle
Such a thoughtful thing – to build around it, instead of over it. And of course, trust you to come up with the thoughts for the tree. I’m sure the tree is as thankful for your company, as you are for its 🙂
I have hugged that tree, and so has Vidur, you know. Old friends 🙂
Good to see you, Sid.
Vidya Sury recently posted…No Mud, No Lotus #GratitudeCircle
What a beautiful tree.. I think the trunk resembles an elephant’s trunk too… Wonderful image..
How can I end my reading for the day without visiting your blog? After all, I made a promise, didn’t I? 🙂
I love the story behind this tree, Vidya and to see your relationship with it for so many years makes it more endearing. You do know how to appreciate the smaller things in life and look at the bigger picture. And that is exactly why I love you and look up to you <3
Loved your way of giving gratitude to such important things.
such a warm feeling vidya while I read about the friendly tree – its just not the photograph that inspired me:) but everything that you associated with the tree brought a smile on my face. Thanks for sharing your personal experience…I am impressed by what you stated “every time a leaf falls… its a blessing…I shall remember this.
Thank you dear Angela! I love the school campus and consider every little thing a part of my life. So many years, and so many hours spent waiting, watching. Hugs!
Vidya Sury recently posted…Sometimes, less is more
Oh I want to reach and hug you and that tree all at once. What a warm story and it does look like its leaning over across the wall.
such a beautiful thought and great capture, yes! I also believe nature has amazing soothing properties and spending few quiet moments with nature refreshes us. so excited to join you the first time for #ThursdayTreeLove
That is astonishing and beautiful. Thank you for sharing! Namaste, my dear.
Lovely narration Vidya and that tree really looks as if it’s lounging !
I am intrigued by this tree and how it hugs the top of the wall – I have never seen a tree like that before, ever.
I also love trees.. and plants and all things vegetation… and trees like this truly hold a special place.. I have a ton of such pictures too… quite a few of them from Lalbagh Bangalore.
What a beautiful picture and that story of how you’ve seen it around through your son’s growing up years! It is amazing how trees and plants become a part of our lives. Glad you joined in for the #TTL, Vidya.