December 6, 2017
A Spirit Tree has been added to R.S. Walsh In The Garden, providing individuals with the opportunity to share their positive vibes and messages.
In the Garden and R.S. Walsh Landscaping Owner Lisa Walsh said in other cultures there are wish trees, or prayer trees, which she saw while visiting the Keys earlier this year.She said the more she thought about it the more she wanted to bring the idea to the island.
“I wanted to do something uplifting,” Walsh said. “It’s a way to give and a way to put out a positive message at the same time.”
Instead of a wish, or prayer tree, Walsh decided to call the olive tree, which represents love and charity, a spirit tree. To enhance the positive vibes and messages, she has dedicated the tag proceeds each month to a different charity on the island.
“At In The Garden we want to share this beautiful space in the spirit of peace, love, grow . . . Share a word, or phrase in the spirit of peace. Share a blessing in the spirit of love. Attach your tag to our Spirit Tree and allow those good thoughts to grow.”
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife reaped the benefits from the kickoff month in November. F.I.S.H., a human service organization that lends a hand to those who live and work on the island, is the charity of choice for December. The organization offers a plethora of programs and services ranging from food assistance to workshops.
For every $2 canvas tag someone purchases from the gift shop, will be donated to the designated charity.
The idea has been received well by the community, with a handful of tags already gracing the olive tree.
“It’s gone really well. People are very interested. We probably have six, or seven on there. I am hoping people will become inspired by it and add their good thoughts and wishes,” Walsh said. “They can write anything they want, as long as it’s positive.”
The tree will stand tall in the garden indefinitely.
“I would like to see how much interest we can get and keep it going,” Walsh said .
R.S. Walsh In The Garden is located at 3889 Sanibel Captiva Road. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information visit www.rswalsh.com, or call (239) 395-5859.