avatarAndrew Przeliorz

Summary

The article reflects on the strength and interconnectedness of a forest's trees, drawing parallels to human resilience and community support.

Abstract

The article "Grow Strong Roots! Lessons from a Forest" uses the example of a resilient, leaning tree in the author's forest to illustrate the power of community and support systems. Despite facing harsh weather conditions for five years, the tree remains standing due to the support of its interconnected root system with neighboring trees. The author observes that trees in a forest act as a family, sharing resources and support, which is akin to human relationships. The article concludes with life lessons derived from this natural phenomenon, emphasizing that individual strength is bolstered by the support of others, and that strong foundations, or 'roots', are essential to withstand life's challenges. The author also shares personal reflections on how meditating near this tree instills positive thinking and hope.

Opinions

  • The author believes that the leaning tree's ability to stand despite adversity is a testament to the strength gained from collective support.
  • It is implied that human beings, much like trees, benefit from mutual support and shared resources to overcome individual challenges.
  • The author suggests that personal resilience is enhanced by strong connections with others, akin to the physical roots that support trees.
  • Regular meditation in the presence of nature, particularly the leaning tree, is seen as a source of inspiration and positive thinking for the author.
  • The article conveys a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world and its silent yet profound lessons on survival and community.

Grow Strong Roots!

Lessons from a Forest

Frontrange of our Forest. Photo:Author

The Photo above might not show you the full picture, but in the middle you can see a leaning Tree.

In usual conditions the Tree would fall down, but it has been leaning the way you see it for over 5 years now. It’s 35m (114 f)

Imagine:

  • 5 x Snowy winters
  • Dozens of Blizzards
  • Winds up to 120 km/h (75 mph)

But it still holds on to the ground.

This tree is insane, but it’s not standing there alone. In a forest Trees are like a huge family. The roots are connected to each other. Trees communicate, share energy, food, water and feelings.

If a Tree needs help, like our friend in the photo, the roots from his neighbor fellows will grow stronger to keep him alive.

I watch this tree everyday. It stands in front of our house.

This makes me think of our own life, and the conclusions of my contemplations are:

You can be strong, but with the support of others you are unbreakable.

No matter how high you rise, without strong roots you will fall.

I often meditate in front of this Tree. It always ends up with positive thinking and hope that everything will be good, regardless of the situation. For as long I take care of my roots.

Have a great Weekend and Hit the Trail!

Checkout my other stories:

Short Sweet Valuable
Mindfulness
Life
Meditation
Forest
Recommended from ReadMedium