In the voice of a fig tree —

The dilemma between optimism and pessimism is more than a theoretical debate for us [trees]. It is integral to our evolution. Take a closer look at a shade plant.

Despite the meagre light in its environment, if it remains optimistic, the plant will produce thicker leaves to let chloroplast volume increase. If it is not so hopeful about the future, not expecting circumstances to change any time soon, it will keep its leaves at a minimum thickness.

A tree knows that life is all about self-learning. Under stress, we make new combinations of DNA, new generic variations. …

But no matter what kind of trouble it may be going through, a tree always knows that it is linked to endless life forms — from honey fungus, the largest living thing, down to the smallest bacteria and archaea — and that its existence is not an isolated happenstance but intrinsic to a wider community. Even trees of different species show solidarity with one another regardless of their differences, which is more than you can say for so many humans.

The words of Elif Shack.