A tree is a powerful symbol for how we show up in life, as well as how we experience it. A tree with strong roots stands firmly with a solid trunk, blossoming vibrantly into huge, extensive branches that reach high up into the sky. I believe quiet time and self care are what we need to grow strong roots, and without strong roots we can’t build a strong trunk.  The state of our branches reveals whether our roots are strong or not- do they hang limp from the trunk, bare and lifeless, or do they reach high up to the sky, vibrantly showing off their leaves?  I believe that when we take good care of ourselves, that’s when we grow strong branches that can provide shade and strength for others. Like trees, we also go through seasons of change. Trees blossom in the spring, shade us with their green leaves in the summer and let go of orange and yellow leaves in the fall, revealing bare branches. It is natural to go through cycles of change in our lives as well, where we let go of what we no longer need, so that we can grow into who we are now ready to become. Many forget there is a regular time of bare branches in between.  There is also the family tree, and what we learn from our families of origin, behaviors or beliefs that have been passed down through generations, some we now may be ready to evolve or let go of. Others before us have no doubt faced similar choices, and now it is time for ours. Can we let go of whole limbs we no longer need, in order to make room for new growth?

As someone who grew up the go-to babysitter for 8 younger brothers and sisters, I became in many ways, a typical caretaker who learns to put others first and forgets to take care of themselves. But that is different now.