Another rung around the tree

If I were a tree, then today, I would magically sprout a new layer of external shell.  You could cut me in half, count the layers, and discover my age.  Pretty wild when you think about it.  Looking at the inside of a tree is like looking at a story board for a book or movie.  Every line/layer is packed with information, stories, emotions, lessons, and experience.

However, these layers don’t just show up on their own.  The ground holds the base of the tree stable, allowing it to root and grow.  The rain and surrounding micro/macro creatures do what they do to help bring nutrients.  The sun shines on the leaves, provides energy, encouragement, and advice on where to go in its life.  It takes a forrest to raise a tree :).

These last few years, I have opened up to the wonders of collaboration.  For a long time, I tried to do everything on my own, and definitely added some tough layers to my stump!  When I look back today on how much stronger I have become from focused/intentional work with others, co-creating, and admitting that I need help, I feel an overwhelming sense of appreciation and gratitude.

Thank you to everyone in my forrest!  If you are reading this now, you have had a profound impact on me, and the latest rungs I have acquired are entirely because of you.  They are the best I have ever had, and all I can say is thank you!  I couldn’t have got here on my own.

treerings

 

Like a human bone that becomes stronger and more dense as a reaction to bearing load, so do

9 Responses

  1. Judy

    Many more rungs to you, my wonderful son. I am very proud to be part of your forest.
    Lots of love,
    Mom

    March 2, 2017 at 9:08 pm

    • Thanks Ma :)!

      March 3, 2017 at 2:50 am

  2. Meriel and Ted Barlow

    Proud to be part of your forest Michael

    Meriel and Ted from Australia

    March 3, 2017 at 5:51 am

    • Thanks Meriel and Ted! Looking forward to coming to visit you two someday soon!

      April 1, 2017 at 6:43 am

  3. Mavis Averill

    Hey Michael,
    Happy Birthday!!!! Thanks for the reminder. We are always stronger together. Thinking of you often,
    Love Auntie Mamus

    March 3, 2017 at 1:33 pm

    • You too Auntie Mamus! Hopefully see you soon :).
      Love you!

      April 1, 2017 at 6:43 am

  4. Susan

    Hello My Dear Friend ….. Happy Birthday to you and Dr. Seuss ….. Some of the best poets and songwriters living! ….. Have a Rock Paw Awesome Day!!!! …. Zuss Ma Tuzz!!!!

    March 3, 2017 at 10:59 pm

    • Thank you my friend! Sounds like good company to share the day with!

      April 1, 2017 at 6:44 am

  5. Mary-Ann

    Like your story very insightfull

    March 5, 2017 at 3:51 am

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