"A tree is a tree, is a tree, is a tree"

So began my first day of Philosophy 101!
WHAT?

Yes, that is exactly what I thought! This 18 year old brain was not mature enough to understand this philosophical statement.

My 56 year old brain now thinks maybe this professor had a point and there is something deeper to this thought.

This tree is in the hills of Santa Barbara. 

If you look closely you can see where it was scorched in a fire, but then notice the new life growing from wherever it can.

As I walked uphill, I began to think about all the times in my life that I felt burned up, burned out, and used up, but found hope.

Every time I was injured, I realized my body & mind was telling me to rest. With each injury, I healed, grew and learned to move my body in ways that fuel me instead of hurt me.

May 4th was the 35th anniversary of my brothers suicide. Even after so many years, the pain runs deep, but as I looked at this tree it reminded me that the burns are still there, but I found hope and faith as I rose up through this pain.

This year I celebrate my 29th year as a mother, there were so many times I felt like I wasn't doing the "right" thing, or I was going to scorch my kids minds with my frustrations or sadness, or just exhaustion. I'm so proud to see my kids rise & they grew from what I wasn't taught in "motherhood" college:)

Please know, I see each of you in your triumphs and your struggles. We all get a bit scorched, but the hope, faith, love and friendship we reach for helps us become brave and grow from each of these experiences.

SO?

Is a tree, just a tree, just a tree?
or can we tune in to nature & the world around us and find hope?

I leave you with this article on elite athletes and what they learn from their struggles.