No “Maybe” About It

What a wonderful illustration of individuality. There is not another tree exactly like this one in the whole world. How refreshing it is to see uniqueness instead of cookie-cutter similarity. And the tree’s gifts to its surrounding are just as special. Come on, climb up into those asymmetrical arms and look at the world around you. The view is really good from up here. Or sit in the abundant shade provided by thick leaves. Or take out your sketching pad and capture uniqueness on paper. Take a nap. Write a poem. Create the lyrics of a never-heard-before song.

The point is: glances won’t do. You have to stop and make friends with life. Today you will see or hear uniqueness more than once. At least, you will have the opportunity. Be on-guard for the beautiful, alert to the alternative. In those moments, it is likely that you are in the presence of The Holy One who so often comes to us in disguise. Maybe like a tree whose undulating arms reach out to us in love and remembrance. Maybe like the man on the corner who is hungry or the woman who grieves the loss of her loved one. No “maybe” about it.