June 20, 2023

I saw a photo of a tree growing into a stop sign today.

I realized that I want that tree to be me. I want it to be my loved ones, too.

Imagine the ability to grow and sustain, even in the harshest and least forgiving of environments. Imagine the fortitude it takes to reclaim your space in such a profound way.

I want us to be who we are. Who we want. Unapologetically and enthusiastically. To continue to grow, even when we’re unable to thrive.

It takes guts. It takes tenacity. It takes ingenuity. It takes strength. It takes resilience.

The ability to set boundaries and say “Stop. This is my space. I am reclaiming it and taking it up” in crucial. The tree could do that. One day, we’ll do that too.

While it would be nice if life were always a forest filled with rich soil, the reality is that some of us are not born into that. Some of us claw our way through the concrete and rise. Some of us are smothered and die.

While the trees in luscious luxury are no less beautiful and worthy of life than that little stop sign tree, it makes you wonder. Which is more memorable? Which leaves a more resounding impact? Which can appreciate the value of a life more? Which has a stronger voice?