Monday, May 17, 2010

The Giving Tree

Back in 1975, I read a book intended for children called, The Giving Tree. And I can honestly say, there has never been a book with so few words that has touched me so profoundly. Even now, as I every so often reread it, it reaches deep; touching that little child within me.

The book is a tribute to what it means to give and love unconditionally.

"The Giving Tree is a tale about a relationship between a young boy and a tree in a forest. The tree always provides the boy with what he wants: branches on which to swing, shade in which to sit, apples to eat, branches with which to build a home. As the boy grows older he requires more and more of the tree. The tree loves the boy very much and gives him anything he asks for. In the ultimate act of self-sacrifice, the tree lets the boy cut her down so the boy can build a boat in which he can sail. The boy leaves the tree, now a stump. Many years later, the boy, now an old man, returns and the tree says, "I have nothing left to give you." The boy replies, " I do not need much now, just a quiet place to sit and rest." The tree then says, "Good! A tree stump is a great place to do just that! Come boy, sit down and be happy." The boy obliged and the tree was happy."

Let me say, I have always believed in the awesome power of trees. Not only in their physical purpose, but also in their energetic ability to heal and rejuvenate.

Yes, I’m one of those crazy people you’ll spot hugging a tree.

But I don’t wear Birkenstocks, I SWEAR!

For the past four weeks, I’ve been very busy working additional hours at my job. Grateful as I am for these hours, I’ve been feeling myself spread thin and a bit discombobulated; readjusting to my new schedule.

Whenever I feel like this, I will inevitably hear a little voice inside me that says, “Go hang out by a tree. You’ll feel much better.”

For as much as I love being a “city boy”, there is a part of me that requires periodic infusion with nature. Nature has a way of “grounding” me; balancing my humanness with my spirit.

Yesterday, I was fortunate to have the day off from work, so I decided to spend the afternoon sitting in my favorite park, under my favorite tree.

So, there I sat at the base of this tree; breathing in it’s energy.

And ya know what?

After almost an hour, I felt like a completely different person.

I felt tremendously energized, yet calmer. I felt stronger, yet more flexible.

I felt centered, clear, and renewed.

And then I felt myself suddenly fill with the inspiration to come home and write this post.

However, before I left I wanted to thank the tree.

But tell me......why the hell was I getting so many STRANGE looks?

Thank you, tree!!!!

Attention: if you have the time, please click on the You Tube video I placed on my sidebar this week. It's the FABULOUS Jennifer Hudson singing, All Dressed In Love. I LOVE this woman's' voice. I guarantee this song will put you in the best mood! Be sure your speakers are turned up LOUD. And try not to dance.