A Round of Applause for Plant and Animal Souls - Page 6

When I asked how he knew that, he said that all the small twig-like branches sprouting on its trunk grew instinctively as a last resort to produce enough chlorophyll to save the tree. This happened because of the lack of chlorophyll from the very sparse upper leaves. Bark beetles had infested the elm and prevented the downward flow of nutrients that normally photosynthesized in the elm's myriad leaves.

Neither the tree expert nor any information I could find explained how the elm tree knew it was dying and needed to sprout the small, life saving, twig-like branches and leaves on its trunk. Some organizing principle within that tree told it to do so.

I must admit I have a great respect, love actually, for all living creatures because the enigma of life, or the principle of life, or whatever it is that organizes being is a breathtaking mystery. Every time I walk in the woods, especially when I see wild animals, I sense it. So, let's have a hearty round of applause for plant and animal souls. Charles Darwin summed it best: “The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.”

Article Author: Regis Schilken

Regis Schilken's stories reflect his search for meaning in a very human but frightening way. Two of his books have been published: The Oculi Incident and The Island Off Stony Point. A third, You Know When will be published this year. …

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