Deep Roots

As you all know, I love taking pictures! I'm always seeing a "Kodak moment" in things most would just ignore or pass by. Even my DH often asks, "Why are you taking a picture of that????"

This tree (or what's left of it) is at the side of our house. *Have I mentioned that we live in the "The Arkansas Bermuda Triangle"?* The weather patterns and happenings are just bizarre in this little valley. Hercules (this mighty little tree) has been through so many hardships (really, ya think?) but as you can see, it just screams, "Look at me! I'm not finished yet! Please don't give up on me! I think I can, I think I can, I know I can!" I don't believe for one second that you could convince this little tree to give up. It is determined to make it through whatever comes its way.

It has endured brutal freezes, straight line winds that have uprooted many large trees, tornadic activity, hail, and drought. It has been split in half, snapped off in the middle, and stripped of it's bark from the freeze...but do you see the plush growth moving up this tree of determination and courage? My hubby has threatened to cut it down several times, but I can't bear the thought of killing something so determined to survive.

How humbling to compare the perseverance of this mighty little tree to the fortitude of most of us. How often have we felt torn apart, worn down, broken in two, defeated, knocked down, destroyed or too weak to care? Oh, that we could all be as dauntless as little Hercules! He may be bruised and beat up, broken and ragged, but he is obviously sturdy and ready for battle!

I asked myself why this tiny little tree stub continues to withstand the storms and the hardships. Bigger and stronger trees have fallen or wasted away, yet this one has been heroic and brave. Perhaps it has something to do with the "root system".

Only when we have a deep, strong, solid root foundation can we withstand the storms and hardships that inevitably come our way.

So, how is your "root system"?

"Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with His hand."
Psalm 37:24