I Remember My Trip Up The Coast Of California And Oregon

On a trip up the coast of California and Oregon, I learned a valuable lesson about mutual support from the majestic Redwood trees thriving there.

The coast redwood grows in the mountains and valleys along the central and northern California coast. The climactic conditions of wet winters and foggy summers support the redwood's need for water. The tallest coast redwoods grow to a height of 300 to 350 feet. Their trunks can measure 25 across. But what may actually be more amazing than how big the redwoods are or how tall they stand is how long they stand and the fact that, despite their large, wind_catching limbs and their very shallow roots, they stand firm against the strongest storms and the wildest wind.

I see Redwoods as inclusive beings. As they grow they incorporate into their basic structure objects around them, including rocks and other trees. Although Redwoods have shallow roots they are noted for their strength and longevity because they share their roots with others.

Each individual tree is invited into the whole to help support the group. This nature's strategy appears to have worked for redwoods are among the oldest living things on earth.

Human energy is naturally inclusive and in order to survive and thrive, we need to learn to consciously share our roots with others. Humans must learn to ask for support when they need it, and stand ready to give the same to those who come to ask.

Eve, a close friend, is a single mother. She have been struggling with the idea of returning to graduate school. For months she kept this desire to herself for fear of appearing immature and needy. But when she finally opened her heart to several friends who had gone back to school, she was encouraged and supported by them. They included her in their root system. As a result, Eve gained a clearer view of her next step. Because of her courage to ask for help, she put an end to her confusion and found a support group that understood her circumstances.

In the process of creating support systems, we need to be sure that those with whom we choose to share our feelings can be trusted. The best way to ascertain the trustworthiness of others is by monitoring your feelings as you talk to them. If you feel understood, you have found a grove of like-minded Redwoods.

By sharing our roots of compassion and support, like the Redwoods in California , we create a safety net in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Their secret is simple: Redwoods grow together in groves and intertwine their shallow roots. Thus, the roots of one tree in the grove are the roots of all the trees, interlaced underground and able to hold each tree upright no matter what kind of gale goes on above.

Let us learn how the Redwoods grow together and stand together, appreciating and intertwining their roots, staying in parallel harmony with each other and remaining perpendicular to the ground.

Prayer:

Father, let me have the courage to ask for support

when I need it.

In return, let me always be willing to support others

when they need it.

Amen.