Under the Giants

From HSU English 311 Environmental Writing, Poetry and Prose

The smell of soil mixes with the mist of a light rain. Under the protection of redwood trees, I sit immersed in shades of green and brown. My senses are filled by the rich scent of soil and the constant drum of rain. Birds chirp and rustle in the undergrowth. Insects scuttle for cover. Sorrel and sword ferns appear to stretch toward the sky, strong stems nourished by a bed of decomposing leaves. The cycle of life, death, and rebirth is evident all around.

Soft debris forms a comfortable nest. Branches shield me from every stray drop of water. It is easy to imagine magic in this place. Plant and animal life flourishes as Mother Earth provides for her children.