Mycologist, Merlin Sheldrake, argues our identity as individuals shapes the way we form relationships with one another, and affects how we share resources and responsibilities. It also justifies exploitation and extraction of the ecosystems that sustain us.

As an invitation to break down the fence between self and the ecosystems that sustain us, we playfully invited conversation with a local, the greenie kind and no, not human – but possibly “person” in tree, shrub, twisting vine…..

The Mountain Devil drew Piper’s attention and this is Piper’s creative response:

Just a Devil Bush

Just a devil bush
Kids run into me
And scream in pain
At the sharp pointy
Of my fingers;

What is it like to have
Legs constantly bending,
Moving, mending?
 
Go away kids who pick
At me, prefer slower
Lower conversation.
 
What would I know
I am just the devil bush
Just sitting here, what do I know?
Know lots- flowering
To attract bees
Sweat off my leaves
Communicating with the
Universe –

Mother earth is sick
Weather is changing
But what would I
Know, I’m the bush
Just sitting here, devil with a gentle soul

Piper

Lynn Daniel Class 5-6 Teacher

Originally a high school teacher in the public system, Lynn has also taught at TAFE and in community settings. In the Steiner context, she has previously been a kindergarten and primary school teacher. In addition to her roles as Chair and Principal, Lynn is High School Co-Ordinator, teaches Geography and History, and co-ordinates the Outdoor Education Programme. Lynn has a B. Arts (UWA) and a Dip. Ed. (WA Secondary Teachers College).