I found this quote in a book I am reading by Alicia Salzer, M D, entitled: “Back to Life – getting past your past with resilience, strength and optimism.”
“In a world blinded by the pursuit of pleasure, I am here to say that people are in pain. In a world rushing to get ahead, I am here to say that people are being left behind. In a world obsessed with the value of the market, I am here to speak for the value of life……and I am alive. This will be no quiet fight, for I am the voice of audacity in the face of apathy, I am the spirit of bravery in a world of caution. I am commitment to action in the face of neutrality. I am alive.”
Dan Pallotta, activist/survivor
The photo shows a small part a 600 year old Rimu tree in Otari-Wilton Bush Reserver, Wellington, 2007.
ordinarygoodness 
What an awesome tree. Your photo of the tree certainly speaks ‘for the value of life.’ Thank you for this reminder.
You may like to read my blog post from April 22 2009 “Rimus, reflection and restoration” where I mention this tree and its near neighbour of 800 years. The spot where these two giants stand is very, very special in an energy.atmosphere way.
I just took a look at your 2009 post. What a special area and how lucky you are to be able to go there and remember your parents. Giant trees hold so much energy, and make a sacred zone. That sense of continuity must be so wonderful.
It is a special site to visit and remember my parents. They were both gardeners, composters, nature and bush lovers so a fitiing resting place. The giant trees are less easily accessible. You are so accurate about a sacred zone where they stand. The young sapling from the ancient tree feels such a gift to honour my parents and to assist in the regeneration of the native bush reserve. Perfect circles of life.