While working at Save the Redwoods League for the last five years, I’ve met people from all walks of life who share a resounding love for the redwoods. In listening to why people love the redwood forest, I often hear how at peace people feel when they walk among the giants. Our world’s tallest forest certainly offers a calm retreat for contemplation, space to breathe deeply, and a place to be away from the complexity of our contemporary lives. To me, it’s so fitting that the first United Nations gathering to call for world peace at the end of World War II happened under the gorgeous redwood canopy in the Cathedral Grove at Muir Woods.

Today, as we remember the unfathomable tragedy of September 11, 2001, I hope the remarkable beauty and tranquility of the redwoods will help you find peace as you reflect. Whether you have the opportunity to walk through a natural redwood cathedral or simply take a moment to meditate on a beautiful redwood image, notice how the redwoods stand tall and with us as great symbols of longevity and vitality.

For your moment of zen today, enjoy Save the Redwoods League’s live Redwood Cam that shows the serene Smith River and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.