Fallen Advocate Tree at Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Aptos, California Photographed by Dan Coyro, Santa Cruz Sentinel (1-21-2017)

The Advocate Tree Fire, earthquake, logging didn't bring it down but the January 16 rainstorm toppled it. Like a good friend gone— many hikers cried their eyes out, placing roses at its base. Angels were seen resting on the treetop but with its demise, where are they now? Of all giant redwoods on many hikes, this was my all-time favorite tree. At Old Growth Loop in Forest of Nisene Marks State Park on Sept. 6, 2009 I just marvelled at this giant soaring 263 feet high with 45 feet circumference. Its 18 feet Goosepen is shaped like the Platonic Lambda Λ "Soul of the Universe". It's 1000 years old— born at the same time as sage Chou Tun-yi in 1017 whose motto is "Sincerity is the foundation of sagehood" and I treasure my time in the Advocate Tree as if I'm inside a cathedral looking at heaven feeling wisdom & blessings. All things must die but the Advocate Tree lives burning brightly in my innermost heart. Peter Y. Chou Mountain View, 1-21-2017

Advocate Tree Soaring to the Skies on September 6, 2009 hike (4:44-5:00 pm) 18 feet tall Goosepen shaped like the Platonic Lambda Λ Inside Advocate Tree's Goosepen resembling Platonic Λ & Mandorla