Be Like the Tree

  Be Like The Tree

Stand tall and firm for what’s important for life.

Be willing to bend to take-in what’s blowing in the wind.

Let your roots grow deep where you are.

Acknowledge and rely on your ingrained strength.

Grow slowly but surely.

Branch out into new spaces.

Don’t be thin-skinned.

Renew yourself each spring.

Open your limbs to others. Let them nest in your heart.

Bear fruit to share, which seeds your new growth as well.

Let the colors of your personality shine like leaves in autumn.

Accept the losses of change, the small deaths of fall.

Turn inward in winter. Be silent. Listen.

Reach always for the light. 

Raise your limbs in praise, and gratitude for life’s grace.

When it’s time to pass, let your growth be your legacy, 

Like well-seasoned walnut for an heirloom cabinet.