Muslim Haji Ayoub
Rojova, Syria. Living in Barika refugee camp 

Trees are living beings that have been on our planet long before humans. They symbolize life through their persistence and wild nature. In many ways, I like to think they also represent time. Throughout their lives, they host gatherings, lovers, friends, and wildlife in their shade, holding stories and memories from all who pass by. It's been proven that trees hear and respond to their surroundings, almost as though they have the space to keep these memories. Their roots preserve them, while their branches reach out to gather more.

Often, I wonder how many stories they’ve witnessed. How much do they know about us? The wise words spoken beneath their branches, the secrets whispered in their shade, and the animals playing among their leaves. Cutting down trees harms our existence. They take years to grow and branch out, and by cutting them down, we reset their progress. Worse, we lose all the memories and sentiments connected to them. I find it deeply painful.

I also wonder if trees are frightened by the spread of towers and cities that threaten their existence, sometimes overtaking lands they've occupied for centuries. Do they understand the tactics and politics that lead to them being set ablaze or poisoned with chemicals that make them dry and die? And if they could, would they run away to seek refuge as well?