To my daughter, Erin:
I see Erin as a giant oak tree. A tree that has grown over decades with deep roots and broad spreading branches. It is a tree famous to those who live around it for its beauty and what it represents.
The tree has weathered life’s storms and the occasional broken branch bears witness to what it has survived. Through each spring’s growth, each summer’s heat, the fall of autumn and blanket of winter, the tree has rooted deeper, becoming one with where it was planted. The tree looks to God for the sun and rain and the nutrients it needs to grow. It doesn’t worry about these things. Through faith, they are delivered.
The tree has all kinds of animals that seek it for shelter. Because of its strength and reach, it is able to provide for others. The tree doesn’t see what it does as giving, it merely passes along the benefits of the blessings it has received. Those that live there enjoy the comfort of its shelter, the community within and the benefit of the tree’s endurance.
The tree watches over those that live there and gives wise counsel. It doesn’t judge those who don’t listen, whose foolish plans will soon play out. Rather, this tree gives its best to each one and watches over them tenderly.
Through the years the tree’s roots have grown deep, able to find water even during the tough years. Although it makes thriving look easy, years of effort were required.
The wisdom and beauty of the tree grow with every year that passes. Generations recall the joys they’ve shared resting, playing and dreaming there. The tree is the treasure of the community, representing a simple life well-lived and well-rewarded. All of God’s true blessings are shared there – shade from the unrelenting sun, renewal of energy from peace, and rest.
There are many trees in this place. Some are older, some are taller, each is different. This tree’s fame is due to being grown through love, patience and acceptance, all shared freely.
I love the tree, which will be here long after I am gone. I will tell its stories and encourage others to love it as I do. Everyone, young or old, rich or poor, alone or in groups, remembers the tree fondly and looks to the day they can share it again.
Erin – I see in you all these things and more. A great life stretches in front of you. Hardships and trials will shape you, but God’s light shines brightly in you and the truths learned will benefit you and others. Grow well and you will change generations.
