As we prepare for another week of shelter-at-home, voluntary quarantine, social distancing, I’m seeking out ways to keep myself and my family in a positive head space about our current reality. One thing that has really helped us stay sane thus far, is getting outdoors a few times a day, even for just a few minutes at a time for a short walk. We are fortunate to have access to a lot of nature near our home and taking advantage of that gift has proven to be good for my attitude.
Recently during one of my “outside” moments, I came upon a HUGE tree. I mean this tree was ginormous. Massive. Gargantuan. You get the idea- but for extra drama, watch this video here or on my Instagram @racheljud:
As you can see, the tree was flooded out due to all the rain we’ve had in North Texas lately, and the roots and base of the tree were completely covered. It was surrounded by many other trees, which were also flooded. Trees that had nests in them and all kinds of creatures depending on them for their survival.
The similarities of the tree and what each of us are experiencing right now in our personal and professional lives got me thinking. While the water surrounding the tree- which in this analogy represents uncertainty, anxiety and negative circumstances- is putting added stress on the tree, it isn’t overcoming it. In fact, no matter HOW high the water gets, it won’t be able to completely cover the tree. The tree knows that eventually, the water will subside and it will survive and maybe even be stronger for it.
Each of us are that tree. We have the opportunity to stand tall, despite what is surrounding us and to look to all the other trees doing the same for inspiration.
Thank you all for being inspirational trees in this collective forest of support and encouragement. I hope you all are finding a little bit of peace and positivity in all of the uncertainty and if you are having a hard time, I hope you reach out to me or someone else you trust. Sending you so much love and light.