I just got back from an amazing trip to Yellowstone National Park. (I'll probably upload a bunch of pictures and write about it later...)
While there, I hiked along the rim of the Yellowstone Grand Canyon. Everything was beautiful, breathtaking, and amazing.
This tree caught my eye:
Here's a closeup of the roots:
There is no reason why that tree should still be standing, let alone growing. But it is.
Looking at this tree, I felt inspired.
Even when there was no ground left beneath it; even when it could have let go and gone tumbling down the hill; even when there were other trees dying around it. Somehow, it found a way to hang on, and even grow.
Just a couple of years ago, I needed evidence that I could survive the hell I was in. I paid attention to the trees growing out of solid rock, or with no ground beneath them, or twisted to find some sunlight, or any number of things that should kill a tree, and I'd feel hopeful. I knew I could survive.
I don't need evidence like that anymore. I have no doubt that I will not only survive, but I will thrive. Life will be good - I already know that, because it IS good.
I still love the tremendous beauty of the survivors. The ones that are still here. The ones that have faced things that no one should ever have to face. The ones who grew around it. The ones that found a way to not only survive, but thrive and grow. I admire their twists, their exposed roots, their knots, and bumps, and all of the beautifully unique results of surviving something that no one should survive.
To the survivors: you are beautiful. you are strong. you are amazing. Thank you for the beauty you bring to this world. You inspire me.
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There are two things necessary for survival. One is nutrients to grow, the other is things that make it stronger. Life is hard sometimes, but rewarding most. I am glad that you can see the beauty in life, despite its tribulations.
ReplyDeleteThanks Ryan. Are you still in Utah?
DeleteI am in the Provo area at my sisters for the time being. Job hunting, getting to know family, having fun, making new friends, that sort of stuff. Life is good.
DeleteI would rather the pain stopped than that I inspired anyone.
ReplyDeleteMe too Jewelfox, me too. Sending hugs.
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