In Praise of Trees

We put a high price on rarity, but often it’s the common things that are most important.

Photo by author. Sooke Hills, Vancouver Island

For me, it was the maple in our backyard in Provo, Utah that first gained my appreciation. It stood solitary and tall in the northwest corner of the yard. From there it could cast a lengthening shadow across the lawn that enabled both play and relaxation in the afternoon, even on the…