Beech
The keeper of the sheltering forest
Nature of the tree
The beech is the mother of our forests. Without humans, large parts of Central Europe would be covered by beech forest. Its bark is smooth and silver-grey, its leaves glow light green in spring and copper-red in autumn. Beneath its dense canopy it becomes quiet and cool. It is said that the German word for letter, «Buchstabe», recalls the beech staves into which signs were once carved.
Inner attitude
The beech is patient and motherly. It gives shade and shelter and lets the young grow up slowly in its light.
The essential qualities
- sheltering
- patient
- motherly
- clear
- communal
It does not grow alone, but as a forest.
Meaning
The beech calls when you need shelter or have forgotten that you are part of a community. It teaches you to grow without pushing, and to give room to what comes after you.
Voice of the tree
«Rest in my shade. You do not have to grow alone.»
Encounter & working together
You meet it in the beech forest. Lay your hand on its smooth bark and listen to how quiet it becomes beneath its canopy.
Pay attention to
- where you seek shelter
- where you can give others room
- where you are part of a greater whole
The beech works when you are ready to let yourself be held and to give support yourself.
Essence
I grow in peace and give room to what comes after me.
