Saying Goodbye to the Tree that Changed my Life

Stumpy was one of many cherry trees being cut down to make way for a new seawall at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. Some referred to the aging Stumpy as “he;” others as “she.” Nobody referred to Stumpy as “it.” After many failed attempts to save Stumpy, people began to say goodbye. Photojournalist Carol Cuzy tenderly captured his final days as people and animals reverently paid their respects. She wrote, “Stumpy became a symbol of resilience, a miracle in our midst, blooming his little heart out despite the frail weathered condition of his fragile shell of a trunk.” They showered Stumpy with origami, notes, hugs, and memorial flowers. Even a rainbow appeared, and birds cuddled near him. One mourner said, “Offering recognition and comfort and solace and understanding to any living thing is important.” Carol reflected that it was about more than the little tree: “It is about honoring the spiritual interconnection of all life.”

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