Be like a tree.
In our lives,
Perhaps we can look to a tree for guidance and strength.
A long-lived tree is strongly rooted in Mother Earth,
Its deep roots growing and stretching into the soil,
Touching other trees around it and connecting to all of nature surrounding it.
A tree as reliant on both the Earth and the sky to nurture it and give it life.
Although a tree may blow in the wind,
Its connection to the Earth is what helps it stand with strength.
Just as our connection to one another helps us withstand the trials and tribulations of daily life,
A tree relies on the light of the sun to nurture it and help it grow.
It also relies on the rain so that it may drink the Earth's nutrients,
Dust off its leaves and breathe in the air around it.
A tree can stand for thousands of years just being and doing what a tree does,
Being present.
It neither regrets the past nor looks to the future,
It just is.
It stands firmly in the now.
In its lifetime,
It may have been bothered by insects,
Struggled through drought and even survived fire.
These things have left many scars on its trunk,
But over time it heals and continues to grow,
Not worrying about the marks or the ravages of time.
The tree stands with splendor,
Providing a home for insects,
Birds and animals alike,
Providing shade or shelter,
Whatever the need may be,
Throughout the many seasons of its life.
Perhaps we could be more like a tree,
Facing life with a strong connection to the Earth and stars above,
Appreciating our sources of life.
Blowing in the wind instead of fighting against it and remaining strong at our core.
Deeply connected to Spirit,
Not knowing our path but having faith that whatever we come upon,
We will not only survive,
But we will thrive.
Be resilient and have faith that in our challenges we are growing and learning who we are and who we are not.
Standing strong in our values and being deeply anchored in an appreciation for all of life.
Fully present in this moment so that we may experience,
Truly experience what is happening now and with the deep knowing that the same energy of life that runs through all beings is inside of us.
Realizing that sometimes we must surrender and be still like a tree,
For we cannot control others nor the future.
Like a tree,
All we can do is bring our best self forward and have faith and trust in the universe.
Letting go and living our lives with love,
Not only of self but for all beings.
So be like a tree,
Have faith,
Just be and surrender and be still.
