One of the joys of spring is observing recently desolate trees showcasing new foliage —seemingly overnight. A sure sign of hope, reminding us the time to don short sleeves and sandals, eat burgers off the grill, and smell freshly-mown grass is near.
Oh, but trees do much more than proclaim spring’s arrival. Obviously, they enhance and sustain life, but trees demonstrate several other traits worthy of consideration.
Consider the Patience of a Tree
Trees accept the seasons of life. Unlike me, they neither struggle with or bemoan loss and change. When blow the cold winds of winter, trees stand firm. Although stripped of clothing, they remain steadfast, waiting with patience until God abundantly adorns them again.
If you would know strength and patience, welcome the company of trees.
― Hal Borland
Consider the Trust of a Tree
Trees make no attempt to hold on in vain to spring beauty. Come fall, they let go their colorful leaves without fretting their barren appearance. Every season serves a purpose, and God works all things together for good. We thrive, too, when we trust we’re fulfiling His plan for our lives.
Anyone who thinks fallen leaves are dead has never watched them dancing on a windy day.
― Shira Tamir
Consider the Posture of a Tree
Trees remain in a state of gratitude, limbs stretched outward to accept God’s blessings of rain and sunshine, songbirds, and branch-climbing children. How splendid a life to stand attentive to God and praise Him all day.
A tree…looks at God all day, and lifts her leafy arms to pray.
— Joyce Kilmer
Consider the Peace of a Tree
Trees, with their beauty, infuse us with peace. They nourish us emotionally. Psychologists suggest this happens because plants are without emotion and conflict unlike the people in our life. No wonder God looked over all He had made, and declared it very good!
Trees give peace to the souls of men.
― Nora Waln
Consider the Generosity of a Tree
Often, we take God’s Creation for granted. We help ourselves to more than our share without replenishment. Shel Silverstein’s beautiful children’s book, The Giving Tree, helps us appreciate the value of trees. It’s about a little boy and a tree. A little boy who grew to be an old man, taking everything the tree offered through different phases of life while giving little in return.
I am sorry, Boy, said the tree, but I have nothing left to give you.
— Shel Silverstein
Happy Arbor Day (April 29, 2022)
Trees are the biggest plants on earth. The Arbor Day Foundation tells us they provide oxygen, store carbon, and stabilize soil. Science tells us trees reduce stress, thus benefiting our health.
Trees also serve as a model for how to do life.
Spend some time in the company of trees today.
The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second-best time is now.
— Chinese proverb
What do you value about trees? (I value your comments.)
Trees remain in a state of gratitude, limbs stretched heavenward to accept God’s blessings. How splendid a life to stand attentive to God and praise Him all day.#trees #ArborDay #praise Click To Tweet
I love plants of all kinds, and trees are among my favorites. I think of the beauty of a maple, the majesty of an oak, the fragrance of cedar, the cushion of the pine’s needles, and on and on. I don’t think life would be half as lovely without them.
Poetry in your words. Trees have inspired many a poet.
On Friday, I valued the trees that formed a canopy over our heads as my husband and I waited for a light rain to pass so we could continue our hike. I’ve always loved trees and find them beautiful even when they have no leaves. Their trunks and branches often form unique designs that cause me to pause and take notice.
I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll have to pay attention to the trunks and branches next time they are bare again. Thanks for contributing that thought Luann!
The trees around us have been blooming and are leafing out. Trees do nourish us emotionally. Happy Arbor Day. Thanks and God bless, Candyce.
It’s so great to be surrounded by such abundance. God is good!
Yes, and we need to take time to e accept that emotional nourishment. Lovely thought!
I thoroughly enjoyed the quotes about trees, Candyce. They were very calming for my spirit. Thank you!
Thank you, Annie. They resonate with us probably because we recognize the truth in them.
I am also amazed the the variety of trees God created. He didn’t just stop at one, and they all work together to make our world beautiful, provide food for us and the birds, as well as resources for shelter. We serve an awesome God who doesn’t merely give to us He goes over the top. Thanks, Candyce, for this lovely post that welcomes spring.
God does go over the top, doesn’t He? I love that sentiment. We could get by on much less, but He provides and provides and provides. Thanks be to God.
Reminded me of the poem by Joyce Kilmer which you site, “I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree.” We learned in school and I think I still remember the whole thing. Trees are such a marvelous creation of God. I enjoyed this so much.
“Trees” is one of my all-time favorite poems—taught to me by my mama. I do wish more schools still included recitation of poetry in their curriculum.
Thanks, for your encouragement, Sylvia.
Such beautiful thoughts Ms. Candyce. It’s amazing how God uses all of nature to teach us and remind us of His steadfast presence, and control, over all things. What a beautiful picture your words paint. I had similar thoughts as I had to cut down two trees off my fence line this week (one of which had snapped off and hanging precariously over my fence). It reminded me that I can’t know how long I have, so I need to keep reaching upward every day that I can. God’s blessings ma’am.
I love that thought, J.D. Keep reaching upward as long as we can.
Blessings to you, Sir!
As a farm and outdoor girl, I loved your message, Candyce. I’ve been watching our trees as they clothe themselves after a long winter. Their leaves are so fresh and green after their long winter nap. As you share what wisdom our trees give to us, I reflect on how marvelous our God is–to create this amazing planet Earth and all its inhabitants (both plants, animals, and people). We are all intertwined and we, who have been given dominion over the Earth, have tremendous responsibility in protecting this awesome gift from God. Thank you for this inspiring message.
Thank you, Katherine. I agree that responsibility to care for the earth is what God intended when joy gave man dominion over the earth. I also believe He desires us to find delight and in His Creation and see that it is good.