Sharin’ the Journey

Recently I visited my daughter.  She lives in a corner apartment on the second floor.  Her apartment has a balcony, which because of its location is an adult version of a magic tree house.  Being on the second floor her balcony is surrounded by the branches of a flowering dogwood tree.

balcony in summer

On this day the sun was shining and there was a warm but strong breeze.  Having never had a tree house as a kid or been one to climb trees beyond the very low branches, I was amazed at what I was watching.  I have always enjoyed the sounds of tree leaves dancing in the breeze, but from this nestled perspective I could see just how much the branches and even the larger limbs move, sway, and bend with the wind.  From the ground looking at a tree it is evident how sturdy a tree trunk is but from my view from her balcony tree house I had a new appreciation for the strength of a tree’s trunk and in turn how vital solid roots are to a tree’s wellbeing. At this time of year the first signs of the changing season were starting to appear as a few leaves had started changing color.

My magic tree house experience got me thinking about CCM, our staff, our community supporters, and our clients.  All of us need solid roots and we are aware of and grateful that God’s  love, light, and promises are what we are rooted in. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

I also recognized that the leaves on the trees have lots of company; they are not alone in their dance in the breeze.  As an agency, professionals, and people who face life just like our clients we know the value of “company” of a support system to help get through life’s strong breezes. “They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.” (Numbers 11:17) 

Maybe you too have noticed the changing of the season marked by the trees changing color.  Have you also noticed that not all the trees change at the same time or change to the same color?  I don’t think it is by accident that creation reflects our experience as people.  I think it attests to our oneness with all of creation.  We too do not grow and change at the same time or in the same way.

Speaking of changes we have changed our WELLBEING newsletter format.  Starting this month we will be featuring our Wellness practitioners.  In order to make this change we have renamed our inspiration section to “I” Openers.  In the spirit of changing seasons we have included a beautiful poem in “I” Openers.  The focus is relationships: A Reason, A Season, A Lifetime.

fall trees

“Autumn” the year’s last loveliest smile.

 ENJOY!

        THIS SMILE IS FOR YOU!