A tale of lichens
“In a world of scarcity, interconnection and mutual aid become critical for survival. So say the lichens.”
Ever since I read these words in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass, I could sense a tale of lichens wanting to emerge and share its natural wisdom with those who might receive it. Either because not familiar yet with lichens’ magic or in need of a kind reminder or perhaps a seed of inspiration.
Lichens are life born from reciprocity. They’re a living reminder that under stressful conditions, two organisms can turn toward each other for cooperation and become a new organism.
Fungus and alga partner to become lichen. A partnership in which both benefit from the other’s gift.
Alga produces sugar from sunlight but isn’t so good at finding minerals.
Fungus decomposes matter and liberates minerals but cannot make sugar.
Through symbiosis, lichens become a reciprocal exchange of minerals and sugar. A dynamic and mutual partnership where the roles of giver and receiver shift from moment to moment.
What might we learn with lichens?
Finding our gifts. What are your gifts? Your capacity to find minerals or make sugar?
Celebrating diversity. Instead of forgetting our identities, might we find ways to honour nature’s strength in diversity?
Seeking reciprocity. Instead of competing, might we find our alga- or fungus-equivalents and together become lichens?
Lichens spirit
