The Giving Tree

Published: 28/10/2012

Last Updated: 14/07/2026

The Giving Tree

A new and already good friend of mine James Wardell introduced me to this story whilst we were brain storming about how to communicate ForestNation to the World. The Giving Tree, based on the book and drawings of Shel Silverstein.

There’s a lot to learn from this wonderful Tree that just wants to love and give, and when she can she is truly happy. True happiness comes from giving and caring for others. The pleasure is in giving and the sadness comes when all we do is take and give nothing in return.

I think this applies to us all as individuals and collectively as societies. If all we do is take from each other and take from nature we’ll never find what makes us happy or society healthy. If we give back to nature and increase the abundance of natural resources we’ll develop happier and healthier societies too.

If you see sadness in this story it’s because the giving is abused and not returned. We can stop making the same mistakes as the little boy, and it’s easy to make this change. It’s something that can happen inside each and every one of us.

Andrew Pothecary

Andrew Pothecary is a pioneer in purpose-driven corporate gifting, with over 20 years of experience in the gift, eCommerce, and reforestation space. Since 2004, he has worked at the intersection of meaningful gifting and conscious consumerism, helping companies give with purpose and impact. In 2006, Andrew turned his focus to global tree planting and ecosystem restoration, launching large-scale reforestation projects and campaigns. By 2007, he was helping organizations shift from traditional promotional products to Tree Gifts that contribute to verified reforestation, reinventing client appreciation, event swag, and employee gifting with measurable impact at the core. Through ForestNation, Andrew empowers businesses to strengthen relationships while planting trees that restore biodiversity, support local communities, and contribute to verified reforestation in Tanzania. His work bridges genuine environmental contribution with brand storytelling, helping companies grow forests and deeper connections.