Brenda’s Blog – September 19, 2023
“Sequoias grow in community – if you ever see one leaning out you can know the roots have been separated from the group.”
My preacher Uncle Paul told me the story as he toured my daughter Meredith and me through the giant Redwoods near their home in Eureka, CA. Majestic, awe-inspiring, frightening… all attempt to describe the indescribable.
“That’ll preach” is the grid through which I hear stories. Growing up in the home of a renowned speaker taught me to look for illustration in any and every situation. Years ago I laughingly adopted the tag line which meant I saw a transferable principal.
The trees triggered me immediately! We, too, are to grow in community, aren’t we? Our roots intertwine sharing nourishment, trauma, sunshine, and even the warm Spring breezes. It is the proper way to live.
When one of us starts leaning away from the group we need to do a “root check.” What is happening? What is pulling one away from the community? What has cut off the nourishment? We belong in community. We belong sharing ourselves with each other.
The trees are individuals yet bonded at the root level. We stretch, mature, and develop our individual skills and gifts while learning from each other and sharing life.
Keep your eyes open – there are life lessons everywhere – even in the Redwood Forest.