Old and young life

This aged tree is being supported by about twelve wooden posts.  Not having seen the process, I can’t say for sure, but I suspect that these posts came from significantly younger and significantly more numerous trees.

Kill 12 to save 1?

It brings out an interesting discussion about the relative values of lives.  In humans, we tend to value youth over age.  Think of all the stories, books and movies where the old guy gives up his life for the sake of saving a younger person, especially a child.

Whereas with plants, the opposite is often true.  People get enraged when older plants are cut down and replacing the destroyed plants with new ones is often small recompense.

When humans approach extremely old age, it is true that they are revered and extremely valued.   Once a person reaches a “rare old age,” they are given great care and attention.

No comments on whether this is good or bad, just an oblique comment on the interesting reversal of value on aged life between humans and plants.

Neither a pet owner nor farmer, I have not spent much time around animals.  Do you have any thoughts to share about where the value lies with animals?