Several months ago in Hungary in an open cast coal mine
16 swamp cypress tree trunks, estimated to be 8 million years old, were
discovered. These trunks, buried in sand and surrounded by water, were preserved
so well that they did not fossilize. Due to their organic state scientists are
able to study them and gain interesting knowledge about pre-historic plant life,
dating back to the Miocene geological period. It is estimated that the trees
were 98-131 feet tall, which is characteristic of that period. Today 5 of the
trunks are still intact and can be visited.
For 8 million years they have been a part of nature and a reminder for us that
life on earth has an immensely long history. Nature is wise and ancient. It is
ever evolving and acts as a great teacher for humanity.
It is humbling to realize that Humanity also has a relatively long and rich
history, when compared with our personal existence. It is important to
understand, as Socrates taught, that we do not know everything. There is much
for us to learn and to discover. And just like nature, Humanity can also evolve.
However evolution for Humanity occurs when Human beings evolve and not just the
machines that surround us. Technological advances do not lead us to be more
ethical, wise or just.
Just like the discovery of these ancient tree trunks, each one of us has the
potential to discover our own true nature. When, every day, we learn, apply and
practice ways of being that are aligned with nature and wisdom we have the power
to leave behind us a world that will allow for the evolution of generations to
come.
