Roots and Trees
photo: https://pkmizen.wordpress.com/2020/06/14/how-are-your-roots/
An interview/discussion I listened to today on Instagram got me thinking. Even though this is not new information, I found it fascinating to hear the guest speaker explain how all trees grow in two directions and how this can be applied to every one of us.
I am not as articulate as he is and know my explanation won’t be as profound, but I still would like to share my thoughts.
The speaker explained that trees grow roots downwards and then extend upwards to reveal a trunk, branches, and leaves.
He continued and shared how the roots thrive in a dark, damp environment, and work pretty hard to ensure there is enough nourishment for the upper section - the part that flourishes in bright sunlight and looks beautiful for all to see.
He then shared something I had never thought of before - both the plant beneath the soil and the plant above the soil are very similar and share a striking resemblance. There is a main root, from which other smaller roots branch out. The same goes for the tree we all get to see. There is a main trunk, from which the branches, stems and leaves sprout. The roots and what they look like remain hidden. All we see is the healthy-looking upper section - yet the two are so similar and so deeply connected!
The final part made is what resonated with me and made me sit back and start making connections. He likened the growth and structure of trees to our own lives. He said most of the tree’s hard work takes place beneath the found - in the dark, moist, unseen environment where it nurtures and creates the right environment for the tree’s upper part to thrive, ensuring its beauty is displayed for all to admire. He drew a parallel to our lives - drawing attention to the part of us that everyone sees - successes, challenges, struggles etc. - the 'roots' of our hard work. Our lives carry with them the visible ‘above-the-soil qualities borne out of the unseen below-the-soil root experiences.
He asks that we recognize, embrace, and celebrate each other, knowing that everyone has walked a different, unique, and ‘unseen’ path; a path that has played a significant role in shaping who they are today. So appreciate your ‘root’ journey and appreciate other ‘root’ journeys as well. It helps us avoid making quick judgments based solely on the outside tree we see!
It took me ages to get this down, and I’ve mumbled my way through. I hope at least one line makes sense to you!
This is really enlightening, "that everyone has walked a different, unique, and ‘unseen’ path;" Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteIt was a reflective hour for me, listening to the gentleman
DeleteI like connecting the growth and structure of trees to our own lives and remembering that the hardest work may occur underground and unseen. It encourages me to have more empathy for others.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, have you heard about how trees communicate through their roots? Our book club is reading Finding the Mother Tree this coming year. I look forward to reading and discussing it.
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DeleteNo, I haven't heard about it but would love to and will also find that book you mention. There is so much to learn and reflect on each day!
ReplyDelete