Brenda’s Blog – May 30, 2023
“I think it’s dead, so let’s cut it down.”
I walked around my yard eyeing the faithful ones which stood tall and strong sporting beautiful greenery. How proud I am of them! They are the ones I can count on. Then I look at a straggly one standing in the shadow of my favorites. No green leaves, not even tiny buds. Certainly this one has lost the race and needs to go.
The delay to clean up the yard taught me a lesson: don’t give up on late bloomers. I walked out on the deck, surprised at the sight of tiny leaves popping out on the “dead tree.” WOW! That made me think deeper than trees… it made me stop and ask. How often am I tempted to question abilities because the person doesn’t break out in leafy glory as quickly as others? And perhaps they will never attain the volume of the giant oaks, but their contribution adds to the fullness of my backyard.
Maturity isn’t reached by all simultaneously – there is a random, and often frustrating, pattern of development. We can miss out on the joy of seeing someone burst out in bloom if we write them off as dead way before they really are. Seeing their potential and nurturing them is slow, sometimes agonizing, work, but oh, what a payday when we see them find their sweet spot and shine.
God designs a plan for each of us. His timing is impeccable. Our assignment is to cultivate and nurture those around us so they flourish and flower. And it also reminds me to consider my own seasons. I may think I am too old to bloom, but then an idea sparks new activity… and leafiness! We have the privilege of seeing new paths and new opportunities – and off we go blossoming anew!