Trees as Listeners: A Lenten Reflection

“Don’t just do something, stand there” is a quote often attributed to the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. While it may seem like a silly phrase, it carries a surprising depth in its topsy-turvy wisdom.

Too often, we face a situation—whether a person, problem, thought, or argument—and instinctively leap into action. We rush to respond before truly pausing. In short, we aren’t good listeners.

It’s time we learn from the true masters of stillness: trees.

Trees listen beyond ears and human perception. Through intricate connections with their environment and each other, they constantly respond, revealing a quiet awareness attuned to the earth's language.

In their listening, they offer us, the eared creatures, a lesson in how to be more present and attuned.

Here are some of the ways trees listen—and what they can teach us about listening.

Trees listen through their roots, part of vast underground mycorrhizal networks. These fungal connections let them exchange nutrients and signals. When a tree is stressed, it sends warnings through the network, prompting neighboring trees to “listen” and activate their defenses.

Trees listen through vibrations, detecting subtle shifts in air and soil, like wind or animal footsteps. Some studies suggest plants may even grow roots toward the sound of running water, indicating sound-based listening.

Trees listen through light and touch, sensing changes with photoreceptors and adjusting growth. When branches sway or leaves are brushed, they trigger chemical changes that influence development.

The Hebrew prophet Isaiah envisions a hopeful day when God’s restoration brings such joy that trees clap their hands (Isaiah 55:12). Though metaphorical, this reveals a deeper truth: trees get it. The beings that feel the rhythm well enough to clap are the ones who truly listen.

Artist and author Yumi Sakugawa encourages us to “listen to the listening.”And so…

Here are some questions for reflection:

• How do you assess the quality of your own listening?

• What lesson about listening do you most need to learn from trees?

• How can you attune yourself to the way trees listen and learn from their anchored presence?