When I grew up, I loved maple trees. Two grew in our front yard, and my oldest brother Gary tapped them, then boiled the sap down to the sweetest sugar. Now, more informed and a city dweller, I wondered how the under-appreciated trees feel about us. Here’s what I learned.
as told to David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Let’s face it, folks. I’ve been here a while. Like, “witnessed the rise and fall of payphones” while. Rooted in this concrete jungle, I, a humble hackberry (Celtis occidentalis, for you botany buffs), have seen it all. From the daily dog parade (complete with questionable fashion choices on the smaller breeds) to the never-ending construction ballet (performed entirely to the tune of pneumatic drills), life as a city tree is, well, interesting.
Now, I wouldn’t call myself a gossip (roots are deep, but not that deep), but I can’t help but eavesdrop on the daily human symphony. Let me tell you, it’s a cacophony of confusion and contradiction. Here’s what this weary bark has gleaned about your peculiar species:
Don’t get me wrong, there are moments of beauty. The way sunlight dances through my leaves, the laughter of children playing in the park – these are the things that make this concrete jungle bearable. But sometimes, I can’t help but wonder: are you even aware of the world around you?
Here’s a tip from your friendly neighborhood tree: take a deep breath, look up at the sky (not your glowing rectangles!), and appreciate the simple things. Maybe then, the symphony wouldn’t be so chaotic, and we could all coexist a little more harmoniously. After all, a healthy planet makes for a happier (and less noisy) neighborhood.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some photosynthesis to attend to. It’s a tough job being the green oasis in this concrete desert.
Maybe, considering the viewpoint of a tree, you might see things a little differently too. Just maybe, you’ll take time to put your phone away, walk a little slower and look a little longer at what’s vying for attention all around you.
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