Photography Course - Advice From A Tree

I finished my online photography course at Superhero Photo called "Elevate the Ordinary". I enjoyed completing the assignments, and reflecting on the themes that were presented. Andrea Scher is so inspiring... if you are not familiar with her work, just read this one blogpost and tell me if you don't feel immediately more hopeful about life, and less critical of yourself.
I've had many ongoing problems with my camera (and my sewing machine, which will hopefully be rebuilt if the repair wizard can find the necessary, but "not being made anymore", parts ... seriously, what is with all my recent technical glitches?) and I wasn't very happy with many of my photos (forget what I said above about being less critical of oneself!)
But I forged ahead anyway with the Leonard Cohen's mantra:  "Act the way you'd like to be and soon you'll be the way you act". I want to be able to capture memorable moments and feelings, and use those snapshots to increase joy and love in my life, my family, and my community. 
Soon maybe, eh Leonard Cohen?!?! LOL
Anyway, one of the course assignments was to photograph your favorite tree.
This is mine. 
I have "known it" since 1988, and it is leaning more precariously over the water each year.
I love weeping willow trees. What a great name for a tree. Did you ever wonder why it is called that? 
Here's some info from 20-20 website:
"Few trees offer more drama than the Weeping Willow. World-famous botanist Carl Linnaeus named the tree after mistakenly believing that it was referenced in the Bible. It turns out that the tree he was thinking of was a poplar. Still, the name stuck and for centuries the Weeping Willow has been used as the symbol for grief, sadness and sorrow."
There is just something so stately and elegant about these trees, and they usually grow near water, so that's a bonus too! 

My favorite willow tree is old, and gnarly, has obviously weathered many injuries, and is still beautiful and inspiring to me.
I first saw this wonderful poem on the Raspberry Rabbits blog...





Advice From A Tree by Ilam Shamir

"Dear Friend,

Stand Tall and Proud.

Sink your roots deeply into the Earth.

Reflect the light of a Greater Source.

Think long term.

Go out on a limb.

Remember your place among all Living beings.

Embrace with your joy the changing seasons,

for each yields its own abundance;

The Energy and Birth of Spring,

The Growth and Contentment of Summer,

The Wisdom to let go like leaves in the Fall,

The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter.

Feel the wind and the sun

and delight in their presence.

Look up at the moon that shines

down upon you

and the mysteries of the stars at night.

Seek nourishment from

the good things in life;

Simple pleasures

Earth, Fresh Air, Light.

Be content with your natural beauty.

Drink plenty of water.

Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes.

Be flexible.

Remember your roots.

Enjoy the view..."

If you would like to enjoy the poem set to relaxing music...