I judge a university by its trees

20 April 2023

I judge a university by its trees,
for trees are metaphors
for the intellectual life.

Trees need space to grow
both above ground and below.
And under the footsteps of passers by
no one sees how they struggle
and stretch blindly in the darkness.

Trees do not grow quickly,
but each day there is change —
movement and growth, however slight.
Their branches extend in different directions,
creating much-needed balance.

Trees, most of them at least,
go through seasons of bloom
where they look unstoppable,
confidently meeting each morning
with joy as sunlight shines through.

But trees also wither,
losing their appearance of life.
Depression comes, and they
doubt if they will ever return
to the best version of themselves.

Still, it is gentle progress, even in darkness
with trust in the work
and mindfulness of the journey,
that reminds them, and us,
what it means to be alive.