[Seasons: Summer XXIII]
Children don’t need to be taught magic or told to have an imagination. It’s part of the nature of youthfulness. And no other seasons promotes imaginary play like summer. The long warm days, time away from school, and increased freedom all contribute to a spirit of exploration and wonder.
Trees also help. I’m convinced they are innately magical.
My magic tree was a huge weeping willow on the edge of our property. It could be a blistering 100 degrees out, but in the shade of the willow, a make-believe world was always the right temperature. There was no end to what was possible in that tree: a pirate ship’s bow, a secret jungle, theater stage and curtains, or just a fort to hide from enemies.
My adult eyes are the door to a vault of good memories, and the willow is the key. Every time I see a willow, I can’t help but to feel a sense of vibrancy.
Weeping willows have a hormone called Salicylic Acid (SA), which is the chemical inspiration for Aspirin. When the tree is injured or damaged in any way, it releases SA to trigger the tree’s defense response against bacterial or fungal infection. Even further, the willow can convert SA into a volatile chemical that can trigger the defense response of nearby trees. The weeping willow literally warns other trees of immanent danger. (Again, trees are magical!)
Summer and fully leaved willows go hand in hand. I have one on my property, and it’s my favorite tree. Sometimes I stand under it to experience a smidgen of youthful wonder.
