Trees

I have been thinking a lot about trees.

Wikipedia says, "In botany, a tree is a perennial plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches."

The biggest trees I've ever seen were in Muir Woods in California. I visited there with my family on a summer vacation to San Fransisco when I was 19. Those ancient redwoods range in age from 400 to 800 years old, and grow up to 250 feet tall. I still remember the feeling of awe and reverence I felt in that majestic place.

Sometimes when I face challenges or trials, a favorite saying comes to mind and gives me hope:

"The strength of a tree lies in its ability to bend."

That has been very applicable for me in the last year as I have dealt with the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer. Though scary and difficult at times, it has also been a time of great learning and I have bent in the winds of change. It has helped me recognize what is really important, both spiritually and physically.

I am more dedicated to exercise and eating right... and not for my outward appearance, but for my inward health. This larger, overarching view has given me greater determination and deeper motivation. 


I recently finished reading Alison's book (referred to in the last post) about creating lasting health, and I have so many new insights and ideas to implement. I love how on the last page she says, "Remember the old saying: The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The next best time is today." When it comes to making positive changes, now is the time!

The First Presidency message in the Ensign this month, The Best Time to Plant a Tree, uses the very same old proverb, relating it to becoming your best self, starting now. President Uchdorf says, "There is something wonderful and hopeful about starting now. There is something empowering about the fact that if we choose to decide now, we can move forward at this very moment. Now is the best time to start becoming the person we want to be--not only 20 years from now but for all eternity."

On a spiritual note, I heard a youth talk in church a few weeks ago that has stuck with me. The young woman related having a testimony of the gospel to a tree, saying the large main branches represent our testimony of the basic doctrines of the gospel, such as the life and mission of Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon, the First Vision, and so on. Everything else branches off from those basic principles.

I can't believe I had never thought of it that way before, with my love of all things horticultural. Now I recognize that indeed, my testimony of every little thing about the gospel--from tithing to visiting teaching to family history--depends on nourishment from the bigger branches. And in turn, the strength of the big branches comes from the trunk, which I think of as my soul, getting nourishment from my roots of personal worship such as prayer, scripture study, obedience, and service.

The banyan trees I saw in Hawaii are certainly an exception to the rule.... they root from the branches as well as the trunk! 

Speaking of family history, this is another tree I am exploring... my family tree. Mike's and my love for family history work is growing as we discover more about those who have come before us. It reminds me a little bit of chocolate cake... one bite leaves you wanting for more!

We both recently received histories from family members, and that is where the true gems are-- in the stories. It's funny when we are both devouring new information and trading it with each other... "Did you know my great great great grandpa came from Switzerland and married his first wife on the ship in her nightgown? ... and later he was the president of the Swiss German mission twice? ...and he was the mayor of Paris, Idaho? "

Mike would respond, "Did you know my grandpa was really good at gymnastics? ...and he chauffeured prophets and apostles while on his mission?"

Then me again, "My great great great grandma came from Wales, where her ancestors once owned Dunraven Castle!" My girls especially loved that story, claiming their right to be real princesses.

The most rewarding moments of all are when we can go to the temple and do work for our family members, connecting them together in bonds that will last for eternity.

Another quote comes to mind... "Climb a tree--it gets you closer to heaven." -Anonymous