Southern Cape Forest Trees

TO THE WAYFARER…

Ye who pass by and would raise your hand against me, hearken ere you harm me,

I am the heat of our hearth on the cold winter nights, the friendly shade screening you from the summer sun,

and my fruits are refreshing draughts quenching your thirst as you journey on.

I am the beam that holds your house, the board of your table, the bed on which you lie,

and the timber that builds your boat.

I am the handle of your hoe, the door of your homestead, the wood of your cradle, and the shell of your coffin.

I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty.  Ye who pass by, listen to my prayer:  harm me not.

Click on the links below to read further on our trees …