While standing outside on a mild winter's day, I noticed something unusual. From my vantage point on our deck, I could see two trees. Though they are the same species, and they
appear to be roughly the same age, the two trees look very different from each other.
The tree across the street stands in a wide open space; it looks like this:
(Excuse the discoloration; technological glitch of some sort.) *smile*
My first thought was to ponder how the tree across the street had made it into January with all its leaves intact. We live in a prairie province, where the snow arrived months ago. Hoar frost has also been here and gone several times. Still, the leaves on the tree across the street are as plentiful as they were in the blazing heat of August.
Meanwhile, the tree which overhangs the corner of my home is nearly naked. Part of a row of trees bordering our property line, this tree also shelters our garden shed. I was confused as to why the tree standing alone and open would fare best.
When I questioned my husband regarding what made the difference in the two trees, he responded with an uncertain question. "I dunno...the wind, maybe?"
The wind? These trees stand not more than 500 yards apart. They would be subject to the exact same weather conditions. Determined to find a satisfactory answer, I looked a few minutes longer. I soon realized my husband had been correct: it had everything to do with the wind!
Our region has two predominant winds: North and West. In this particular case, the damage - or lack thereof - is directly relates to the North winds. You see, the North side of the tree at the corner of our home faces our backyard, an alley, and a schoolyard. Meanwhile, directly North of the tree across the street is another residential property, bordered entirely by more trees - appropriately named a "wind row" in this part of the country.
In an instant, I knew that I was the object of a gloriously illustrated life lesson.
Those who face the winds of adversity alone endure the most damage.
Observe those in your circle of influence. Think of three or more acquaintances who have endured the same storm: a miscarriage, a divorce, or the loss of a young child, perhaps. Maybe you know a group of people who were victims of job loss or who lost their homes to a natural disaster.
How have they weathered the storm? Would you say the damage in each case was equal? I would venture to guess that some are more bitter than others. Some lost more sleep to worry, and it shows in their faces.
Others prayed more, and surrounded themselves with friends to weather the storm. They sought out prayer partners and coffee dates to serve as their windbreak. As a result, they seem more "together." Isaiah 55:12 tells us that "...all the trees of the field will clap their hands." A person who has weathered storms well will have their praise - or their "leaves" - intact.
Find your people. Take a risk, and open your heart to trust. Build a "wind row" around your heart, instead of a wall. Ensure that you won't be left stripped and unsightly when the winds of life blow cold.
To all who have ever been a part of my windbreak...thank you. I hope my life is a glorious reflection of love on display.
