Planting for the future

Yes, this is the same 60' tree that Zoë climbed for years before she got too big for the branches to support her. We planted four of them in 1991. This one is called "Zoë's tree" because it was her favorite. If you look waaaaaaaaay up through the branches you can see her little paper "landmarks"--special names for certain branches and lookouts, written on small pieces of paper and enclosed in packing tape. They go within ten feet of the top.

Talking with her sister Jeanette tonight about what to say at Sunday's memorial. There were so many aspects to her life, but one (of many) that made a lasting difference was her caring and dedication as a psychiatrist. She got many letters toward the end of her life (and afterward) from former patients. All expressing gratitude.

Peg's planting this tree is a metaphor for her approach to psychotherapy. She was willing to go deeply with her patients, to truly help them reclaim their divinity... and their lives.

An old Jewish proverb from the Talmud recounts the story of an old man  planting a sapling by the road.  He's asked why, since he won't enjoy the shade or fruit in his lifetime. His reply? The tree is not for him. It is for his children, and their children, and their children's children.

That was Peggy.