My Tree

This is my tree. In a certain sense it represents me. As I grow, it grows. As I mature, it matures. It stays in its one place as I typically remain in one general place. Both of us bloom right where we’re at.

This tree was meant to be my tree. My father planted a tree for every Shannon child the years we graduated high school. This is the tree he planted for me. It has flourished since day one. For reasons out of our control, the others have each gone through multiple trees. But somehow mine was able to immediately thrive.

This tree is usually one of the first things I see. It sits in the middle of our front yard, directly outside our front window. When I start my day there’s no way I can miss it. In fact, most summer days I spend the first thirty minutes of my morning sitting before it on my driveway. I’m out there to enjoy the sun and consider the day ahead. And there that tree is alongside me.

This tree encourages me. There are many times where my limits seem to hold me back, but when I see the tree I don’t have to worry about that. I am assured that I am growing. That my branches of influence are extending further and further out. With the right kind of nourishment I too can thrive right where I’m at. I gratefully appreciate that!

This tree inspires me. It’s the reason I’m writing now. And it’s not the only time that’s been the case. No, I’ve never written directly about it before, but it’s significance has often spurred on my work. It’s not going anywhere, so I believe it will keep serving this inspiring purpose.

This tree is a gift. A great gift from God! A constant reminder of all that’s been done and all that’s in store. This is my tree. And it will continue to represent me.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” – James‬ ‭1:17‬