I once saw a tree in Wyoming where the winds tend to blow quite fiercely.  The tree stood alone in the middle of a vast windblown prairie.  It was large and gnarly and truly lovely.  Hmmm.  This is interesting.  What can this tree tell me about life?The tree was leaning into the wind at quite an angle.  It had grown nearly sideways and the magnificent branches reached bravely into the wind.  It almost seemed that the branches were embracing the wind.  The locals say that in order to withstand the high winds and harsh weather, trees in Wyoming must lean towards the wind for if they grow away from the wind…they will surely be blown right over.  Perhaps in our own lives, we need to take some Advice from a Tree, and learn to face obstacles directly.  Leaning head-on into our problems rather than turning our backs and running in the opposite direction is what allows us to grow strong and resilient.  It builds character and a sense of confidence knowing that we can withstand whatever difficulties that may come our way.  As my Advice from a Tree poem reminds us….

Dear Friend

Stand Tall and Proud

Sink your roots deeply into the Earth

Reflect the Light of Your True Nature

Go Out on a Limb…

Whether you are in the midst of a difficult time or just contemplating taking a big risk…going confidently in the direction of your troubles and your dreams can define and strengthen you - and bring you a large, gnarly, and truly lovely life well lived.  Here is to Your True Nature - embrace it!