Coal or Trees, which came first?

Thoughts for Friday March 28, 2014. In a discussion with my friend John Julian a curious thought came to me. Which do you think came first...Coal or Trees? It is much like the riddle about the chicken and the egg. Both of these question hold the same puzzle relating to our existence. Think on the cyclical relationship between respiration and photosynthesis. When we breathe our bodies take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide and water. Both of these are necessary for plants to survive. So, how does the question about Coal and Trees come into the cycle? I ask you, how did the carbon, oxygen and hydrogen get in the cycle? Where did they come from? Who or what provided these basic elements? These questions lead us to the question about the origins of the universe. If the origin is accidental, unimportant and without purpose why all this concern about he environment, freedom, animal rights etc? Why would there be any concern about living or dying? How could such a complex and wonderful place like this be accidental or without purpose? I can't imagine. It is a magnificent gift to be here. Life is the greatest gift. How was I allowed to experience this great place? An accident? I received this gift and I have no possible means by which to reciprocate for the gift. Or, do I? I can say thank you, and look for ways to be responsible. What would being responsible look like? Who do I thank and where can I find a list of responsible actions? How did we get just enough carbon, water and oxygen in our environment to maintain respiration and photosynthesis? What keeps the cycle in balance? Is the cyclical process self sustaining? Should I worry about burning too much coal or growing too many trees? Am I smart enough to fully understand this? Is anyone? Does our planet use these elements for other purposes? Are some of these uses important to life? Who has these answers? Why do I find these discussion more stimulating than war, terrorism or politics? Don't know, just do! Forgive me and I'll forgive you. Maybe I'll forgive you anyway. Yes, yes, yes I'll forgive you. Be my friend.