In troubled times, touch an Elder

This moss-covered ancient Douglas fir stands tall among its peers in the Avenue of the Elders, Spencer Butte Trail (Eugene OR), 2025

Approx. read time: 2:20 min.

If you’ve ever pressed the palm of your hand, a good long minute, against the deep-wrinkled mossy bark of an ancient Doug fir, and paid attention to the sacred encounter, you’ve likely noticed something: the deep, slow, resonant beat of an Elder’s heart.

I have.

The deep, slow beat, I say; and deeply resonant.

And if you are paying attention, you become aware of your own heartbeat. You know, the heart which is pulled in many directions, bearing the burden of many things; overworked, overlooked.

The heart which beats, day and night, within your own chest; this hidden, faithful, ever present Wisdom carrier; Treasure chamber of every hope that has flickered within you; birthplace of every hidden act of compassion, every generosity, every tenderness, every unseen expression of care.

With your hand still pressed against the ancient bark of this sacred Forest Elder, you discover a connection that has existed all along: You are not alone. You are part of everything that is deep-rooted, steadfast, enduring, unswayed, come what may.

You breathe in this sacred moment of kinship, hold the breath, feel its purifying effect, feel the sudden liberation of a long tightened self.

You breathe out pent-up gratefulness, unfurling generosities that surprise you.

With your hand pressed firm on this Ancient Forest Elder, you discover strength of deepest unworded convictions.

And you know, now, in this moment, that you can go on, press forward, carry yourself with dignity and purpose. You are not lost. You are deeply rooted. You are not alone. You are surrounded, at all times, by the Ancient Elders, seen or unseen, yet always present.

You turn, now, your face uplifted toward sunlight dappled by the lush canopy of a community of Doug firs, gently riffling in the morning breeze.

If you’ve never pressed the palm of your hand, a good long minute, against the deep-wrinkled mossy bark of an Ancient Elder, I urge you to do it soon. Pause, pay attention to the sacred encounter. Discover the deep, slow, resonant beat of an Elder’s heart.

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