![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-1.jpg)
This an Illawarra Flame Tree, flowering in the reserve next to me. The densely forested reserve is the reason I bought this place; it is also what makes my place so vulnerable to ember attack.
My yard is constantly carpeted with dry leaves– perfect kindling.
So the Flame Tree is a good symbol of the situation in many places as our country explodes into flames.
![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-2.jpg)
I took the tree photos before the worst of our smokefilled days, like the one above.
![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-3.jpg)
The main colour now comes as the sun rises and sets red.
Under necessary water restrictions I am watching my garden die from thirst, and crisping as the day’s heat rises.
Many have had to watch their whole life’s work — garden, home, belongings, even animals — become burnt offerings to our climate crisis.
I need to find reasons not to despair… and rage with anger… at this time.
So I instead I will turn away, to celebrate the colour from the trees — Silky Oak and Flame Tree — that are native but not indigenous to here.
I hope they lift your spirits a little too.
![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-4.jpg)
![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-5.jpg)
![](https://sharynmunro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/fiery-6.jpg)
Nature is beautiful, and bigger than us; we have not treated her well, and right now she is giving us a mighty wake-up message. Last chance?