Can Trees Teach Us About Family?

This morning, I listened to scientist Suzanne Simard speak about the hidden life of trees. When the program ended, I found myself looking at the forest in a completely new way.

From the outside, trees appear to be separate individuals, each standing tall on its

own. But beneath the soil lies an incredible network of connection, communication, and care.

In many ways, the forest reflects something we once thought was uniquely human: the need to belong, to give, to receive, and to help one another grow. I learned that trees communicate through an underground network of roots and fungi.

When a young tree needs water or nutrients, signals travel through the network and other trees respond by sharing what they can. When insects attack one tree, warning signals spread to nearby trees, giving them time to produce protective chemicals before the pests arrive.

Even more fascinating, trees seem to understand the importance of living together. They often grow close to one another, yet carefully avoid allowing their branches to crowd each other's space. Scientists call this crown shyness—a beautiful reminder that healthy relationships leave room for others to grow.

Some researchers even believe that much of a tree's "intelligence" may reside in its root system. Old stumps, though no longer producing leaves, can remain connected to the forest, continuing to share nutrients and support the living trees around them.

That thought touched me deeply.

As we grow older, we sometimes begin to wonder if we still have an important purpose. The forest reminds us that our greatest contribution may not always be standing in the spotlight, but quietly strengthening the lives growing around us.

Parents and grandparents, especially those who live far from their children or grandchildren, can still be part of that underground network of love and support.

Today, our "roots" include video calls, emails, text messages, and shared online moments. A Friday evening story hour via Zoom with Grandma and Grandpa would be a valuable tradition for a child. A family sharing a recipe through iPads would create memories for a lifetime. Or simply sharing stories from your own childhood that include life lessons could become nutrients to help a child grow.

Every story you tell...Every tradition you begin...Every encouraging word you share...travels through your family's roots.

The next time you walk through a forest, take a moment to look beyond the towering trunks and leafy branches. Remember that beneath your feet, an invisible network of roots is quietly strengthening, encouraging, and supporting the life around it.

Then ask yourself...What kind of roots am I growing?

Sharon

https://www.ted.com/talks/suzanne_simard_how_trees_talk_to_each_other