Sharing a favourite memory today.
This is an image from my photo album from many moons ago when we used to live in Mauritius. It was the place where I first set up home as a new bride and this was the first Bonsai tree we brought home after settling in our cosy two bedroom flat in Rose Hill (now known as Beau Bassin-Rose Hill).
Defying it’s small size, it was actually a 25 year old Elm tree, that used to sit on the tiny ledge of our West-facing balcony, bathing in the warm glow of the afternoon light.
Often, while passing in or out of the living room, I would glance at it every now and then, to check if the leaves showed any signs of drying or withering. It was my way to ensure that the tree was fine. In a few months time, I came to love the presence of this tree in our home—it was my comfort and my solace! And even more than that, it had become my sole friend and companion, while I went about my day, since most of the time, the tree was the only thing that gave me company, while my husband was away at work. The shape of the tree was very intriguing—it fascinated me no end, and I loved observing how the tiny leaves came on the branches and how from one season to the other, the tree grew, shed leaves and again, grew new leaves, and so on in an endless cycle.
I was fearful and hence extremely careful in watering this tree, so as not to “kill” it at any point. Of course, my fears were unfounded, because we had the tree with us through the entire duration of our stay in the country, until it was time for us to leave the island. What haunted me every day those days was how to carry it back with me to our new destination.
The Elm Tree, basking in the afternoon sun.
That was not to be. Eventually, I decided to gift it to our next-door neighbour and after we had moved, for months, whenever I missed it, I used to tell myself that it was being looked after with the same love and affection by the new owner, as I had been showering it, myself.
Years later, though, it transpired that the neighbour, by now divorced, had eventually moved to Australia along with her two children. The thought of the tree being left alone, shattered me! What else could I have expected?! Having lost touch with the neighbours, by then, I had to reconcile myself to the fact that all that was now left was the fond memory of my Elm Tree.
Now, nearly 25 years later, I have this image with me, that still reminds me of my old friend. Some bonds never change—and even if they do, they only grow stronger with time. This one, sure does, even if it remains a much-loved, cherished memory today!
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Joining the first edition of thursdaytreelove hosted by my friend, Parul. If you’re a tree lover, please do share tree images from your part of the world, and then, tag and share the link with Parul.
Bonsai are such little living works of art and dedication – I’ve never managed to keep one alive, myself, and would not have allowed you to leave yours in my care. I am sorry for your loss. Perhaps the tree has found a new home, though, after all. Maybe you could write it one?
This was a sweet story to read. The Elm plant looks lovely with its shape. Today I learned something new from reading your post. It is – a house plant too goes through its cycle of shedding leaves, staying bare followed by growing new leaves just like the big trees out there. If I would have been in your place, all those years ago with this plant, I am afraid I would have taken the plant as dead with it shedding its leaves and getting bared. Most likely I would thrown it out too. How sad it would have been this way!
Awwww!! I can feel your pain.
Aww! That is such a lovely post. Your tree looks awesome. I’m sure your neighbour would have passed the tree on to someone else to look after. I used to have a lot of plants when we were young and had a garden, but then our landlord sold the place to some developers and though I managed to get the small plants indoors, the trees were all cut down to make way for buildings.
It’s always heartbreaking when you have to leave behind a treasured plant or pet. But I think someone must be taking care of your tree.
This was a sweet memory indeed, Esha and a beautiful picture.
I really feel you. I am glad you have this picture. I have a few plants at home that I have with me for over 10 years and I love them so much. There is sure a story with each of them and while I know I have them, I am always worried of losing them. I am so glad you made this post the first of tree love for 2025. It means to me that the love you have for trees and plants will only grow.
Thank you for sharing this personal story.
Aw that’s sad. Even though I don’t have a green thumb, each time we move I carry my money plants and jade plants. They’ve become so dear to me. I can only imagine what it must have cost you to leave your plant behind.
This is such a beautiful post, Esha! I am touched by how much love you have for this tree, just like one would feel for a loved one, or just like how I would feel for a pet, or for a stray furry friend. <3