This is one of my favorite groves of cottonwoods, just outside a town where we harvest.
Trees on the prairie fascinate me because the climate is naturally more conducive to grasses and forbs. To be a tree on the prairie, they have to be tough to flourish and grow despite the odds. In doing so, trees create beauty, homes for animals, and shade for those who desperately need it. There is something lost if they were to be cut down. What a shame to remove something that can offer so much good!
Sometimes in life we have to be like the tree on the prairie and fight, against odds out of control, to live out our life’s mission. There are plenty of things that we can’t control, but sometimes those challenges are other people. Today, I want to encourage you to dig your roots in deep and continue the good fight.
Some people may say your kindness must contain an ulterior motive. Be kind anyway.
Some people may think your goodness must be a sign you think you’re better than others. Continue to be good for goodness sake.
Some people see your drive to be the best version of yourself is to be better than others. Make the most of the time you have on earth and grow a little more each day.
Some people will try to bend you until you break. While it may hurt, you are unbreakable.
Some people will spread falsities behind about your behind your back. Keep your head held high. You know the truth and have nothing to be ashamed of.
Some people may see the empathy you have for fellow humans as weak or a waste of time. Love anyway.
Some people will feel threatened by the light shining in your eyes and the fire in your soul. You can’t control them or the baggage that has created that hate. Keep your fire burning.
Sometimes these attacks will come from complete strangers, acquaintances, close friends within your circle or even from within the walls of your own home. No matter where it comes from, the pain can cut deep, especially with the latter two. It may take time to recover from your wounds. You may have to move forward still bleeding, but don’t let stop or discourage for carrying out your purpose.
The days it feels like you’re being cut down, remember your calling. You may be here to make a difference in one person’s life or many. Quantity doesn’t matter as each of our responsibilities are different. If we lost your kindness, goodness, drive, strength, empathy, light and fire the world would suffer. Stand tall and face the storms life brings your way, head on. You are stronger than it all.