Madrone (arbutus) trees are deeply loved in the West. They are charismatic, with bright red bark and branches that twist and turn—always in search of light. They are master cooperators, hosting a wide variety of mycorrhizal fungal species on their roots that help them establish communities with other tree species and increase access to vital resources for them to thrive.

Salish legend says that arbutus roots hold the earth together.

With all that we’re experiencing with the exposure and re-assessment of our social contracts, the madrone feels like a good tree to model. By reaching out, cooperating with others on the basis of securing one another’s needs, we, too, can hold our world together.

May these pieces help you establish connection, stay grounded in truth, and forever seek the light.