The Hard Pear reminds us that all that we experience is part of our spiritual evolution. Hard Pear can bring a higher understanding of why things have unfolded the way that they have, and she can help us to see the positive in even a painful event. The Hard Pear’s energy is like a golden spiral – endlessly expanding upwards – like our spiritual growth. When we are able to see events from a spiritual platform of understanding, then it is possible to forgive others and ourselves of any wrong-doing. Unshed tears can then be processed and released so that self-healing can take place. The Hard Pear may be helpful for letting go of grudges and bitterness, and may benefit those suffering from past trauma, anguish and regret.

Affirmation: I release all past judgements. I now see the perfection in all things.

Corresponding Colour: Lime Green

Supportive Essence: the Cherry Wood may act as a supportive essence to the Hard Pear essence, particularly if the Hard Pear essence is being used to address a long-standing imbalance and an “awareness crisis” has arisen. An awareness crisis is an intensification of negative feelings or old patterns for which a flower essence was being taken. It is the soul’s way of calling our attention to these old blockages that need to be acknowledged, blessed and released.

All parts of the tree smell strongly of almonds when crushed, and the dead wood gives off a glorious incense when burnt. The isiXhosa name for this tree means “tree without embers”, indicating that in spite of its perfume, it does not make good firewood. The timber is hard, heavy and comparable to walnut. It was used for telegraph poles and wagon-making in the past. Today the timber is mainly used for furniture and musical instruments. The Hard Pears were heavily exploited for their timber in days past at Platbos: as a result, very few have single, straight trunks – most are large and multi-stemmed, having re-sprouted after being felled. It is perhaps for this reason that of all the trees of Platbos, this was the tree that was most difficult to connect with initially. I needed to slowly build up a relationship of trust with the Hard Pear Spirit. She teaches us of the transformative healing that comes through forgiveness and the ability to trust again.

The sandal-tree perfumes, when riven,
The axe that laid it low;
Let man who hopes to be forgiven,
Forgive and bless his foe.*

Wind-fallen branches of the Hard Pear are gathered at Platbos and hand-crafted into unique and beautiful pendulums.

Harvesting of any parts of a tree or plant must always be done in a kind, respectful and sustainable manner, and necessary permits obtained from the relevant authorities. Those purchasing natural plant remedies also have the responsibility to ensure that these products have been sustainably harvested as otherwise they too are contributing to the likely extinction of the plant and other animals in the ecosystem that rely upon it for their survival.