Feature image: A photo from Big Basin Redwoods State Park in California in June 2026. Two years previously, the redwoods suffered massive damage from a forest fire. Now, new growth is evident and the forest is restoring itself.

You are slippery like Harry Houdini who
underwater, could escape a locked chest
while handcuffed.

Except you escape forest fires.

Growing bark a foot thick— 
clever trick.

Your roots, too,
grow sideways,
to hold tight to neighbors.
so you stay upright 
in a windy blaze.

And just think how
your leaves can drink
California fog—
another cog in your wheel
of survival in a drought.

Today I visited giant redwoods,
two years after a forest fire. 
New leaves sparkled green
against old black scars.