Of Ginkgo and Gratitude - An Ode

Having grown up in Oak Park, Illinois, I never cease to appreciate the beauty of the Ginkgo tree. From its spiritual symbolism to its rich, scientific history, it serves as a lovely reminder of hope, strength, unity, and courage - especially now during this time of uncertainty.

Of Ginkgo and Gratitude - An Ode

As I walk past the Ginkgo

The tree of forty crowns

Of maidenhair and medicine

A living fossil, home of the spirits

Bearer of hope

I am grateful

Its sage and saffron leaves

Blanket the sidewalks

Of our village nonpareil

As a reminder of new beginnings

Symbolic of resurrection and growth

We are stronger

It’s a street tree

And it’s street smart, like me

It has known the community and camaraderie

Having graced its path

And it flourishes alongside humanity

We are never alone.

A phenomenon

The unity of opposites

Of profound endurance yet graceful angst

Of changelessness yet emergent consciousness

Object of veneration I respect the journey

The “silver apricot”

And a silver lining

A newfound appreciation for nature

For the stillness of time

To relinquish unease

We are grounded

The magnificence of miracles

Its wood composes furniture in temples

Worthy of worship

Reminders of faith

Robust, remarkable longevity

We are resilient

A modest muse

Inspiring the writer to find strength in the brokenness

The architect to know that nature never fails

Legacies of brilliance

Evergreen creativity and relevance

You’ve taught us well

Its vibrance of bloom and burgeon

An elixir of life

External beauty because of internal fortitude

Relentless through disquietude

Love prevails

Hail the Ginkgo

- Danielle Boling

Submitted by Danielle Boling from Oak Park

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