Faith Curriculum Library: Tapestry of Faith: Circle of Trees: A Multigenerational Program about Nourishing Deep Connections with Nature

Taking It Home: Council Among the Trees, Part 1

Part of Circle of Trees

Cut down the forest of desire, not the forest of trees. — The Buddha, Dhammapada 283

IN TODAY'S WORKSHOP ... we prepared for the Council Among the Trees ritual, which continues in Workshop 7.

HOMEWORK: Take time each day to reflect on the being your mask represents. Ask yourself:

What is happening to me as this spirit? What are my days like? What are my nights like? What is happening to my environment? What do I want? What do I have to say? What would I like to tell the humans? What wisdom do I have to share?

MAKE TIME FOR TREES: There are several ways to take today's workshop home, for example:

  • Try to spend time outside each day, paying special attention to the trees near where you live.
  • Create a nature journal to record your observations and feelings about trees as you deepen your connection over the course of the Circle of Trees workshops.
  • Think about ways that you can engage with people and trees with respect.

EXTEND THE TOPIC: Explore some of the many wonderful books about trees found in Workshop 1, Handout 2, Selected Bibliography.