We learn from everything. With our infinite wisdom we can learn from the simplest things. The earth provides a magnificent mechanism which propagates life. Though it doesn’t always provide an easy path, it does provide all we require for abundance.
Let’s take the example of a tree which begins with a seed, in itself the result of a “perfect” process of fertilization. The seed falls to form, or takes a ride on the wings of the wind. When it arrives to its destination it immediately encounters adversity. Fate frequently deals its fatal blow as it is devoured by a bird or other animal. In the best case scenario the wind and the rain provide what is necessary for it to become great and glorious.
The first days and weeks of life are crucial for its growth. An animal can destroy the seedling’s destiny by simply running over it while evading an enemy. A storm can wreak its wicked wrath wiping it out in an instant. As strange as it seems, this adversity strengthens the tree. If it does not experience adversity, it fails to form a support system of roots to support it through difficulty.
Throughout, the tree perseveres in the most difficult of circumstances and is, in fact, fortified with each new adversity. While it is true a tree does not think and is not tenacious by choice, it is so by nature. We can learn much from this tenacity to overcome difficulty in our own lives.
We frequently think of adversity which lurks around each corner as something negative to be endured. We flee discomfort and seek refuge in comfort. Nevertheless, it is adversity which molds our character. Those who have never faced adversity are often devoid of significance and emotion. While some would like to live with a little less significance and emotion, these very elements give us sustenance to carry on in the face of adversity.
Thousands of trees surround us, each special with its own history of survival. Similarly, each of us is also special, all products of a process of natural selection which carefully contemplates each adversity defining our being. Instead of fleeing from adversity we can look at it with The Tenacity of a Tree to garner inner strength on this fantastic voyage.
∞ Rob McBride ∞
LL II 6