Old Growth Sparks New Ideas

Contributor: Michelle Smeby

This weekend we decided to take a road trip to visit a National Forest of old growth red and white pine trees, that due to a surveying error, were spared the axe of the loggers of Minnesota in the 1800’s. We found the Lost Forty Acres Park through research on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, as we did not find the park listed on any of our state maps.

I love spending time in old growth forests, among trees that have endured centuries of change in the world around them, yet continue to survive and stand tall. Their inner strength and ability to last as the times change around them is an inspiration to me.

Spending time with these 350-year-old trees (which is old for Minnesota pines) reminded me of my personal spiritual journey. The trees have put down solid roots, which provide a solid foundation from which they have grown upwards. Their peaks reach skyward always seeking the light, and though they may sway lightly with the breeze, they continue to stand tall. And once the wind ceases to blow, the trees continue to stand firm.

Because this is a national park, there were trail markers along the way that described the types of trees we saw around us. I was particularly struck by the description of the cycle of life within the old growth forest: as the older trees die and collapse, they provide additional services to the forest. As they decompose, they return nutrients to the soil; they provide shelter for the animals of the forest; and they enable succession of younger trees to occur.

The hole in the canopy left by the falling of one of the large, older trees, enables sunlight to reach the forest floor. This means young saplings who could not previously see the sun now have the chance to grow toward the light. This also offers the chance for diversity to come to the forest, as the younger trees may be different species than that of the tree that has fallen to make room for the new ones.

Again, I was reminded of my own circle of life. Though those we love may succumb to death, and we are saddened by the loss of their immediate presence and guidance in our lives, their passing gives us an opportunity for new growth. The vacancy they leave in our forest canopy gives us a chance to strive even higher toward the light, and bring forth new ideas and changes to the community based on our insights and ideas. The diversity of new life means opportunities for change in our world. Therefore, do not dwell on the loss of the old trees. The tears and sadness of the death will pass, and once they do, the light will shine again to offer new possibilities for us all.