Birch trees in leaf

Birch trees in leaf, Strathspey, Scotland.

2 weeks of stunning sunshine, with cold starts, absolutely clear skies and amazing clarity of light have seen the birch woods coming into full leaf in Strathspey.  Colours go from bronze to a jewelled lime-green with the young leaves shimering.

The name “Birch” comes from the Old German word “bircha” meaning ‘shining white’, and the name is linked to the Goddess of returning light, Brigid. Birch also appears light and airy.

Birch is a pioneer tree, preparing the soil for other trees to follow, and is traditionally known in many cultures as “the tree of the beginning”.

“No matter how fast you run,

your shadow more than keeps up.

Sometimes, its in front!


Only full, overhead sun

diminishes your shadow.


But that shadow has been serving you!

What hurts you, blesses you.

Darkness is your candle.

Your boundaries are your quest.


You must have shadow and light-source both.

Listen, and lay your head under the tree of Awe.”

– Rumi, from “Like This” translated by Coleman Barks. (Amazon link)

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