Iron Rod Press Newsletter Vol. 1, No.5 1

Talking Trees

October 7, 2025 - Have you ever heard of the "Wood Wide Web"? No, that's not a typo. This phrase refers to an underground root system that allows trees to share resources and communicate with each other.

They should have added another "w" word - "Wow!" - in that reference because that's exactly what I thought when I first heard of this concept.

If trees can share resources and communicate either above ground (as this week's video addresses) or below, that what about us? How can we do better to understand the needs of and help those around us?

1. Expect someone's need to talk to not coincide with your perceived "best time" to listen.
2. While our phones can connect us with others in miraculous ways, they can also be a huge distraction. Think about where your phone is when with others. Even a phone turned upside down on the table can signal that it is more important than the people you are with.
3. Learn to still your own thoughts. This will prepare you to put aside your own ideas and experiences when listening to another's.
4. Don't look for a personal connection to another person's experience. You don't have to have one to be exactly who they need in the moment.
5. If you do feel you have something that might help, wait patiently to share your thoughts. That sharing may come later in the conversation or in the days following.

Learning to listen, to hear those gentle above-ground whispers, or below-ground communications is both an art and a science. Either way you look at it, being present for others will do more to improve a relationship than just about anything else.

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So until next time, always keep your eye on the One that loves you most. Ciao!

Janine

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