Our first stop at the back of the village hall was the birch trees.When the ice age retreated and the hills were left bare it was the Birch trees that first took root in the land. Norse mythology tells us the Birch is the first tree to come to life after the winter. In Celtic Mythology , the Birch , came to symbolise renewal and purification. "Beithe" , the Celtic Birch is the first Ogham (Celtic tree alphabet). The Birch is also in the Norse runic alphabet.At Whitsuntide Birch branches once decorated churches as a symbol of rebirth.
The Birch is an incredibly useful tree,every part of it has a use. Nearly every part is edible. The First Nation people of America valued the Birch.It made wonderful canoes. The bark was used as paper. The sap provided them with sugar and medicine. It was also seen as protection from evil.
We have all heard of criminals being birched in order to bring about some sort of repentance. The Birch is an ideal metaphor for Metanoia. It symbolises a change of heart. Not just one change of heart or new start but the ability to change and make a new start many times after each winter.
Are you emerging from a dark winter?
Have you had a change of heart?
Do you feel alive and growing into a new season?
Are you using all your talents?
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