A Tree in the Wind

There is perhaps no better known indicator of fall in New England then its renowned foliage…except maybe the Patriots!

Everyone knows that there are few artistic displays more beautiful than the handiwork of God himself across the trees of our little corner of the Nation. The changing leaves color the sides of 95, parks, local streets, and even our back yards. Every New Englander is likewise familiar with the conversation that corresponds with this annual palette: the conversation about if the colors were as bright as last year, if it’s early or if it’s late, and of course, how much less pretty it seems to be when we are raking it up!

All it takes is a strong wind storm however, and suddenly this work of art is destroyed.

I noticed today on the west side of the island that some bushes and trees stood as a testimony to both our New England Tradition, and the stormy winds of the last week or two. Among them was a large bush- a short tree really. The side that faced the water was completely bare, while the side that faced inland was full and vibrant with its autumn red leaves. What a powerful image to ponder.

Our lives are a mix of vibrant leaves and bare branches: a constant reminder of the truth that we are born to die. But more than that – how often do we only see one side of the bush?

With others I think that sometimes we only see the side with the leaves. We see the display that is spread before us. Sometimes that display is an engaging and lively, joyful personality. However we have no idea the pain or sorrow that may be hiding behind it. When Robin Williams died by suicide we were all so surprised. How could he who inspired so much laughter fall victim to such sorrow? We never know the tears that hide behind someone’s smile. We never know the hurt that hides behind someone’s rude disposition. We never know the loss that makes some folks so scared to let something go.

With ourselves I think that sometimes we only see the side with the bare branches. We see the struggles and obstacles that become excuses for not making the moves that we should be. We see the things that we would likely call our “flaws” rather than our talents. We see death instead of life.

Really life is much more like a full look at that bush isn’t it? Through those dead branches peaks the color of the other side. Beyond our sinfulness lies reconciliation and mercy. Beyond our mistakes lies valuable lessons to be learned. Beyond our hurt lies a call to love more vibrantly.

Today I for one am grateful for my entire tree: the bare and dark west, and the vibrant and beautiful east! The entirety of the tree is what makes us whole, this autumn let’s all take time to appreciate the whole thing.