Redwoods

Ansel Adams, Redwoods, Bull Creek Flat, Northern California, 1959

     A redwood seedling has the potential to grow into a majestic tree. When we were young, my Dad would drive us North to the redwood forests and I remember how endlessly tall and beautiful these trees were. Being the only women amongst a group of men who have crossed volatility and have entered into violence is like watching redwood trees becoming un-rooted. They crash into each other, succumbing to the forces of gravity that work against them every day to become full grown. I am small and insignificant. My efforts to save the grove are ineffectual and unseen. I surrender because I am outside the realm of men. I know what it’s like to walk amongst those trees—to breathe life and experience peace and beauty. Men have the potential to be majestic like this.