Standing Tall in Our Own Light

Photo Credit: Michael Held

Not too long ago we had some huge cypress trees along a fence line that endangers our neighbor’s house as well as ours in Kona storms removed. It always saddens me to have to do this as I let the trees know that they have done their job. I’m filled with remorse because they were not tended to properly. Allowed to grow far too large for our safety. I take time to honor them, as it’s our very last choice to remove anything that is living. Always a final option.

Yet, what remained is this majestic male date palm as he doesn’t grow seeds. When the cypress came down, we were able to see him with new eyes. He had not been able to stand straight and tall, yet was leaning towards the sunlight that the grove of trees shadowed him from.

Such an amazing metaphor for our lives, yes? Wondering as I gaze at him if he might be feeling a bit lonely? Yet, there are other trees close by who are companioning and not competing. Immediately beginning to stand taller with his stunted branches appearing longer and fuller.

It gave me pause to look inward to reflect and ponder as nature is such a potent teacher. Where might I be standing in darkness? Feeling crowded and not allowing enough space and light for growth. Might I be requiring some pruning to cut away the dry and withered parts that are hindering my growth, my blooming?

What astounds me is to observe how quickly nature restores herself when given even the tiniest uptick of adjustment. Our date palm no longer leaning to catch the sunlight he deserves nor remaining small because the giant trees overshadowed him. Standing taller, his root systems expanding with his new found growth both above and under the ground.

Creating new pathways to assist in stabilizing his outward growth.

Applying this to my life I am able to recognize when I’ve needed to step outside the shadows into my own light. Discovering how to rely on my inner wise woman, remembering that my forest of heart sisters are close by when I require some fortification.

I am mindful too of when I’m in need of some pruning. It becomes a constant, never complete.

Lest I become lax, which is part of our human existence, this mind of mine can begin resembling a dense forest requiring a machete to access.

My deepest gratitude always for the lessons nature abundantly offers me.

Her homework is always the same. She asks me to notice, to witness, to listen, and to remain curious. Observing what is working for her, and to try to apply it within my own life.

Deeply absorbing her ancient wisdom into the marrow of my root system. Observant of the changing seasons while remaining a faithful tender of my inner garden.

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