the unity that dwells beneath the surface

trees are family, dear ones who scent the air with their cool fragrant breath,
who comfort & console. we even share much of the same DNA,
for we both express through water-based bodies made from the minerals
of the earth & its living organisms that swim free in our fluids.

trees, when known through the wisdom of the heart, are also honored as
the universal donors of sacrificial saviors, offering
their bodies as food, shelter, medicine & calming companionship.

with the subtle vision that You bestow, Shiva, i can see trees as
a group consciousness having an individualized expression too,
a gentle pervasive presence. under the umbrella of the high
leafy canopy reaching overhead, the thirsty lips of the roots
plunge down into the dark moist earth, drinking deep from hidden nutriment.

the roots partner in synergy with a widespread fungal network which
joins the forest of trees into a single entity, consisting
of individuals sharing & blending consciousness & nurture,
into one united urge of loving protection & sustenance.

only superficially do trees appear as individuals.
beneath the earth's surface they are actually linked in a widespread
ecology of sharing, networked with their nearby forest neighbors.

ah Shiva! it comes to this again! the unity that dwells beneath
the surface reminds us once more of divine wholeness & endlessly
flirts with us, winking & flashing its alluring fullness & blessing.

it reaches out to us ceaselessly in beauty & connection, in
subtle soft dreamlike pulses of kinship & alliance. thus do You
continually extend Yourself to all who come to You in love.

Shiva, Your warm presence kindles light in the depths of the open heart.
You invite me to sit by Your side, when i would but kneel at Your feet.