In the late 1960’s, there were beautiful Banyan trees across from Waikiki Beach. I was in awe the first time I saw them. There was something very inviting and magical about them, especially when the sunbeams burst between their branches.

In elementary school I read a book about a Banyan tree and a little boy. If I recall correctly, the spirit of his ancestors, including his Tutu, resided within the Banyan tree. (I believe Banyan trees are gateways to other dimensions, spaces, places, and times.)

There’s a Banyan tree in Maui that has enchanted me. I’ve only ever walked or driven by it. Each time it seems to sing lovely, inviting, Hawaiian melodies. I think it’s the combination of the fragrant tropical blossoms; the ocean breeze; and the ancient Hawaiian ancestor’s spirits, that makes it feel like such a sacred space.

I wish I had the opportunity to physically sit at the base of a Banyan tree. It’s wonderful to visit or meditate beneath, especially at night, with the stars shining up above!

A forest of Mango trees, at Mauna Loa Park, was one of my magical playgrounds as a child. The air around those Mango trees was always thick and sweet. The sweetness of the fruit was a treat to enjoy in plentitude! The stickiness afterwards was washed away in adjacent natural streams and tiny waterfalls.  

Coconut, Palm, and Date trees, are a real treat for me to see and be around. They have a natural sway and regal energy. I feel so happy inside when I see them; it feels like home to me.  

All trees communicate. They have a plethora of personalities. Some have a great sense of humor. Some are very serious. Some gossip all day long…

There are some forests I enjoy having conversations with the trees; and those I would rather not. (Trees tell those who take the time to listen the truth. They are very well aware of what is manifesting around them.

There’s a tree across from my boudoir. Her name is Irene. Irene is such a beautiful tree. She has those whirly-jig seeds that twirl around in the wind, like little fairy helicopters. I don’t know what kind she is specifically, but she’s always been so comforting. I can always tell by the color of her leaves what season we’re in. In the fall, she blankets the surrounding areas in tiny, golden leaves. I love whisking through them in Candy Star, and watching them swirl around.

She’s the one who alerted me to the Troll that resided in the tree across the way from her. I would watch that Troll sitting in that tree for decades. He was a tired, grumpy, Troll. One day he disappeared - vanished. The next thing I know, the tree fell. Let me tell you something, if a Troll vacates the premises, there’s really bad chi afoot. (Sure enough, dear neighbors succumbed to cancer once that troll left.)  

The Buddha Tree by my unit is one of my favorites. It’s a Mock Cherry Tree. Every year it’s delightful to see the various life forms that enjoy it! When it blossoms, fluffy, fuzzy, Bumblebees gather nectar from it. There are Cardinals, Robins, Doves, Fairies, and Hummingbirds who nest there. A giant Orb spider would create a huge web in front of it in autumn.

The Cherry Trees in Yokota, Japan are one of my most favorite! I witnessed them blossoming in the Spring of 1977. Such a magnificent vision to behold! I loved when the petals started to gently shower downwards! The petals are so delicate and soft. I’ve never forgotten the splendid sensation of the petals against my skin, while I was being kissed romantically. 

Many Blessings,

Mamakeeya