The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life was one of my first tattoos. It adorns my body with wispy and reaching branches, a few scattered leaves and roots extending below the surface. I often think of how this depicts my very being. It’s funny how nature shows us who we are, what we strive and long for. Each part of the tree symbolizes some part of life or self. Its flowers and leaves represent different achievements and new beginnings. The trunk sturdy, built on circles of memories, making me who I am, and branching off into different parts of my life. Our branches each hold something different and unique. Some branches are from childhood, memories of school years and field trips, silly games and favorite toys. Each leaf recorded a moment, each flower or fruit, a time of success or understanding.

I often feel my soul, like the tree, has branches reaching out for so many things…love, understanding, light during times of darkness, laughter, and friendship. I can close my eyes and visual them searching out in this strange and sometimes scary world we live in. At times, strong winds and storms whip my branches to and fro stripping them of their leaves and flowers, even splitting or altogether removing some of the branches. Memories are lost to the wind, some blown far from my mind. I think of this and realize that these storms may be in fact helping me to forget things that only bring trouble to my heart. Yes, some good memories are lost along the way, but the wind has helped to ease some pain that I myself could not shake. They make room for new growth by clearing the burden.

 My roots spread deep and wide beneath the ground, searching for more stability, an anchor, something to grab hold of and know that the winds of doubt and trouble cannot sway or pull me out of my life. Gentle rains nourish me, washing away the dust of fear and doubt. Seeping into my branches to give me a new perspective, into my roots to affirm my beliefs. Sunlight brings a new day, a warm blanket of love and energy to produce new memories, new celebrations, new life.

Throughout these seasons and storms, my trunk stands firm. It sores towards the heavens, allowing new branches to emerge, compounding years and memories to make itself stronger. It serves as support to all the branches, holding them in their place for all to see. At the end, there will be many rings inside its bark, chapters in life, years of memories and experiences.

The tree serves as home to others and shelters them through many storms. Its shade provides rest for the weary, its leaves and flowers a beautiful canopy for wonderful moments. The tree is the true symbol of life itself. Life that offers beauty, shelter, and comfort. Life that portrays love, hope, and wonder.

Welcome the tree that represents your life. Allow your roots to grow deep and your branches to extend far!