The tree symbolises much of what we wish to support through this charity. The tree is a powerful symbol for the environment and the interconnectedness of all life. The tree’s roots nestle strongly in the earth, yet its form reaches high into the air. Its leaves convert the sun’s energy into food, the roots take up water, both processes helping to protect the fragile earth from the sun and rain. The tree provides shelter and food to many species, including ourselves. A single tree makes its presence felt, a forest of trees affects the weather, a continent of trees affects the climate. Yet the tree asks for little in return.
Compassion is the elixir that opens our hearts and our minds to the rest of life. It is the wish that others be free from suffering. It is the force that propels us to help those in need.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaks often about the importance of the environment and like the Buddha he gives the tree as an example. What better explanation can there be than this (Sheltering Tree of Interdependence).
To learn more about the benefits of trees, visit our Urban Forest page.