Posted by Michael Finkelstein | November 13th, 2012

Tree Moon

It’s been two weeks and counting since Mother Nature rocked our world with her descendant, Hurricane Sandy; and with it, she sent a tree to visit my home and placed her strategically in a dozen different pieces across the roof; one laying gently on the chimney, which saved the home beneath from considerable damage, and quite possibly, my family from harm. How interesting is it then, as my team and I started to consider the options for which “moon name” we would select for this bi-monthly letter, that we discovered that the Neo Pagans already had the perfect name — The Tree Moon — for the New Moon this month. We were astonished and struck with awe by the discovery. Indeed, this is the essence of our work – to connect us to nature’s rhythms in order to make better sense of the world in which we live, and our experience living in it.  Indeed, what we experienced 2 weeks ago wasn’t as random and isolated as it might seem, but how far away we’ve come from the respect and reverence of a time past.

In reality, we don’t believe it is a coincidence that this month is called the Tree Moon, nor do I think it’s a coincidence that we were tapped to attention by the giant hickory that fell on SunRaven, and yet spared from being hurt, despite its size. I believe deeply that SunRaven stood tall, equaling the great forces of Mother Nature herself, as a result of all those who have found sanctuary in the space, placing their prayers and energy in its foundation.

Like many others we experienced a wake-up call; and given that the outcome might have been far worse, we are particularly grateful that we were fortunate enough to hear the messenger and withstand its message. It is this, though, that concerns me-so many in the area talk of their resilience, how brave, strong and fine they are, but their pride in their toughness trumps the humility that is also required. We need to make a mental note and consciously inspect the shifting landscape, including our collective arrogance that appears to be making such disasters more likely. Yes, we survived, but will we learn. I truly hope so.

Let’s renew our commitment to nature; it is a matter of life and death.