A Tree Like Me

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Sometimes I need a good visual to remind me of what is right and good in the world. Our new home has great scenery. My friend stopped by this morning and said, "check out this tree!" Right next to my patio was this beauty. Big, bright, beautiful, strong and sturdy. I thought to myself, "hey, that tree is kind of like me".

I am sure this tree has seen some storms, it's leaves have been tossed to and fro, and it knows what feels like to be green and lush in the warmth of the sun and to be barren in the winter. And yet, here it stands...big, bright, beautiful, strong, and sturdy. Caregiving for a spouse on hospice can have you feeling like a tree caught in a thunderstorm. Even in the storm, you have to remember that you are a tree, planted, rooted, and grounded in a love so amazing and so divine. When nights are rough, (and trust me in these caregiving streets, they get rough), you are big and bright and beautiful and sturdy and strong.

In our new place, I wake up to the sights and sounds of trees swaying and birds singing. There has been a reawakening of peace and joy in my spirit. Perhaps it is a continual level of acceptance. Yes, the circumstances surrounding Carl's illness are beyond my control. And that is ok. Yes, some days are better than others and that is ok. We have no idea how long he will have to deal with this pain. And that too is ok. Why? Because I am loved and cared for by the Most Holy One who has it all worked out. All I have to do is remind my soul to be still and live in peace.

So, I dedicate these words to all who offer care to those who are sick, dying, or hurting. Do me a favor. Stop and take a look at a tree. And whisper to yourself, "hey, that tree is like me". And be at peace.

~A.
Psalm 92:12-15

12The righteous flourish like the palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

13They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God.

14In old age they still produce fruit; they are always green and full of sap,

15showing that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.


Location: Americas (null)

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