Today, just like some of its older relatives in Europe, the Papineau Oak is on crutches. Three props, one ten meters and two six meters, are now being used to help support the weight of the lower branches. Parks Canada is hopeful that this will be sufficient to ensure that the tree outlives the rest of us.
Near the beginning of this post I wondered what it is about oak trees that makes them appeal to so many people. While some, like me, have specific reasons for being attracted to oak trees, I think the fact that they are so old gives them a certain romantic appeal. You can stand in Sherwood Forest and say Robin Hood walked by that tree. Or you can visit The Chapel Oak of Allouville-Bellefosse in Normandy, France that is two chapels built inside the hollow core of a nearly 800-year-old tree and think of the pilgrims over the years who have worshiped in the shrine.
In this highly impermanent world that we are living in now, the oak tree is a sign of strength and endurance in the face of all that the world and nature has to throw against it. Perhaps we look to it as an example to help us carry on in the face of so much strife. Or maybe it's just because they make such nice places to have picnics under, with lots of shade.
Either way, oak trees have endured over the centuries, and continue to fascinate and amaze us. They may not be part of any organized religion, but that doesn't seem to have stopped us from doing them honour.
Article comments
1 - Al Barger
There's the idea of oak trees as representing enduring strength. Then again, they can represent an implacable obstacle, as per the wasted narrator of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "That Smell" when he declares "Oak tree, you're in my way."
2 - Vicki
Would you be willing to share a picture of your tattoo?
I am trying to design exactly what I want for my next tattoo. It will be a tribute to my brother who passed in May. I think an oak tree would be very appropriate for him.
Another little tidbit about oaks/acorns is that during the 'burning times' one pagan would give another a gift of an acorn. It was a silent way of saying "Pssst, I'm a witch too."