Magical Music from The Sweetgum Tree

Reading Signs and Everyday Synchronicities

As daily alchemists, we practice reading signs. Divine messages help us to navigate a complex world. Our lives may feel overwhelming, but we are part of a wondrous world.

For example, on September 6th, I shared with you how the Sweetgum Tree at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) called to me. Answering the call, I am following the tree as it experiences its literal process of alchemical transformation from summer to fall, inspiring an eight-part series about the stages of alchemy and spiritual transformation.

You can read the first post, Kindling Change, here.

The Synchronicity

Then, last Sunday, September 15th, just as I arrived at NYBG for its Mushroom Festival, I heard a man’s voice over a loudspeaker announcing his collaboration with, dear readers, our Sweetgum Tree to create music.

What’s happening, I wondered.

Biologist Tarun Nayar took several branches from the Sweetgum Tree and a fresh harvest of mushrooms, connecting each with a slim cord attached to battery-style clamps, which provided input to a synthesizer. The tree’s bioelectrical current triggers sound, making extraordinary music.

But why this Sweetgum Tree, out of all the trees in the NYBG? What does it mean that both Tarun Nayar and I were drawn to this particular tree?

Here’s the thing: we didn’t select the tree. The Sweetgum Tree selected us.

In spiritual alchemy, this is where the Divine enters—the unexplainable moments that feel guided by something larger than ourselves. The Sweetgum Tree is a living symbol of transformation, and its music echoes the subtle changes we might overlook.

As the Sweetgum Tree sheds its leaves in the coming weeks, I invite you to reflect on the alchemical transformations in your life. What leaves are you ready to release? What signs are pointing you toward your next stage of growth?

I hope this 90-second video of the Sweetgum Tree’s music ignites your creativity and deepens your wonder for Mother Earth.

Affirmations for the Autumn Equinox

1. In the stillness of autumn, I find clarity for my journey.

2. I trust my intuition to reveal synchronicities to guide my choices.

Journal Prompts

1. Where have I noticed synchronicities or signs lately? What might these messages be telling me?

2. As the energy of the Autumn Equinox brings balance, where in my life am I seeking harmony?

Next week, I’ll write about our Sweetgum Tree teachings as we explore the second stage of alchemy, Dissolution. Plus, there’s some culinary alchemy happening around me, and I look forward to sharing that, too.

Enjoy your weekend and Happy Autumn Equinox!