Spirit Tree
Oh how I wish I knew this history of this massive old burned out Cypress. She was easily the largest I've ever seen in my area. This past summer, she gave up the ghost of reaching Heavenwards and assumed the position of a Bow to finish out her days creek side. Oh to only know what she has seen and shaded in her prime. The lightning scarred trunk is burned from the inside out and finally toppled over. I don't know the circumference but I can tell you I can step inside this trunk with no issues. My intent was to do this yesterday to illustrate her girth but the High Tide's pull on the waters made it impossible to do so without getting soaked. Way too cold for me just after first light to attempt!! I will revisit this Gravesite @ Low Tide to revel in the wonder of this final resting place. Even in this, the demise of what once was a monumental landmark, she commands respect and deference. I can feel her Spirit still and the Spirits of those who once gathered underneath sheltering arms that soared skyward but now grace the earth. This Dead fall will continue to nourish the denizens of the Swamp as she breaks down by the natural ravages of fungi, bacteria, the dank dampness of the night, heat and humidity by day and the birds foraging on insects that make their homes in the rot. Nature's plan is a mighty well - constructed one that we as man can never approach in its complexities. Get out and appreciate it, every day, before we destroy it all. I am so thankful I am as close as I am to the place that calls to my soul - the Swamp...
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Please bear with me as I get this out of my system. I learned some disturbing news yesterday that wetlands here in North Carolina are no longer considered protected areas by the Corps of Engineers. That means my Swamps can be drained and slated for development. As I approached the Spirit Tree again its base has been cut into for removal. I'm assuming this is for the safety of workers placing the cable that is being installed just up the road. This just sickens me to no end. I' m honoring the life of this Magnificent Tree with a few more photos for soon it will be only be a memory Note the spray of Wildflowers @ her grave lovingly placed by none other than Mother Nature's hand.
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Why I don't usually take selfies..
These are taken from the burned out lightening cored trunk of my Spirit Tree. And yes, I am standing fully erect
These are taken from the burned out lightening cored trunk of my Spirit Tree. And yes, I am standing fully erect
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Looking Skyward from the inside of the Heart of my Spirit Tree, the sunlight reaching in, like a Torch into the charred remains.
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Author
My name is Kathy Sykes and I'm a wildlife photographer who spends her time stalking the American Alligator in my beloved Brunswick County. You may see me out and about in my “Gator Up” truck with my shotgun rider Hazel Mae searching for sunrises, gators and all things swampy. Come ride with me and share in the adventures of profiling and protecting this amazing creature and its habitats.
