Plant Whispers

When I was doing research for my first book "Sticks, Stones, Roots and Bones," I came across fascinating documentation of African American tree whispering. Essentially, tree whispering occurs after spending long periods of time with a particular tree and coming to understand its language. Since that time over a decade ago, I've explored the topic more deeply and have incorporated it into my novel. I also dedicated "A Healing Grove: African Tree Remedies and Rituals for Body and Spirit" to the magickal possibilities of trees.

I get tree whispering at a gut level. Growing up, our home was enveloped by trees and I could see them from across the lake. I had the assistance of trees while practicing dance steps. I did my homework in a special tree, to which I also retreated when necessary.

I now live in an urban suburb. Each day, seemingly, more land gets swallowed up by new construction for condos and townhouses. Still, trees and plants have a huge presence here--thank the Goddess. We have done our part, with something of a mini-urban homestead in front of our home. I spend many hours there, drawing, painting, writing, thinking, and yes, listening.

Here are short videos of two of my favorite plants this season, broom corn and Longwood Blue flowers. Listen, and see if they speak to you.