Pine, protector of mountain tops,

Guardian of coastal edges,

teach me flexibility, resilience and strength

in the face of life’s many storms.

Poem by Ekstasy Karakitsou

https://ekstasyvine.com/journal/pine

The pine tree was destined to be the logo for my business long before I'd even contemplated starting one. Several years ago when living in The Netherlands my wife Sally bought me a framed print of a pine from an old dutch antique store close to where we lived in Weesp, Noord Holland. That picture has subsequently been hung in 6 different houses as we've moved about Holland and the UK. It's frame had been broken in one of the many moves and replaced very cheaply, with every intention to upgrade when we have time........ 

Having started my business I'd quickly chosen a bland generic stock logo and I hated it. It wasn't me, it didn't speak to me or say anything meaningful about me or my business. A few weeks later, still agonising over this design and during a Zoom call I noticed my beautiful pine tree picture in the background and sat absent-mindedly staring at the image. During the pandemic and the hours of Zoom calls it had been a constant backdrop for my meetings and coaching sessions. I was so inspired in this moment that I began to explore the symbolism of the pine that is described so perfectly in the poem above by Ekstasy Karakitsou.

Going back centuries pine trees are cultural symbols all around the world. These special trees have a role in numerous cultures, folklore and tales.

The pine is an evergreen reflecting the positiviity with which I approach my life and the work I do with others. Most importantly it symbolises resilience, strength and longevity. It's sap has self healing capabilities. The pine is hardy, often found on coastal plains protecting the land from all that nature throws at it. Bending and flexing in the elements. It's also found on mountain ranges and can suffer severe cold temperatures before flourishing once again in spring time. This resilience, strength and ability to roll with punches fills me with inspiration. 

Predominantly found in the Northern Hemisphere the pine carries many meanings in different cultures. Native Americans see the pine as a symbol of wisdom and longevity due to it's evergreen nature and regeneration. The white pine tree was the tree chosen by the prophet Peacemaker as a symbol of the peace and unity of the nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy (described by some as the oldest democracy on earth). 

In China, the pine tree is known as the sōng shù (松树), or just sōng. It represents longevity, virtue and solitude. And along with the plum and bamboo trees is considered one of the "Three Friends of Winter." These "three friends" are three trees that stay evergreen and in the case of the plum tree blossom during the winter. The pine tree is also a popular symbol of the New Year.

To other cultures, they represent fertility and life. A long time ago, in Northern Europe, pine trees (or firs) were decorated to celebrate the birth of Frey, the Norse god of the sun and fertility, at the end of each year. The tops of the trees were lit as the winter days were getting shorter. Northern people thought that in doing so the light will attract the sun. This is also thought to be the origin of the Christmas tree.

The story of the pine has resonated so perfectly with my psyche, my beliefs and the work that I do that it had to be the symbol of my brand.