I was in Scotland a few days before Christmas and, as you can see, the weather was wonderfully seasonal. This was even more powerful for me as I was being taken to see one of the oldest trees in Britain. It lent a silence to the moment with the snow softly falling so there were no other sounds around – so perfect.
It is amazing to think that this tree has been slowly growing for thousands of years and vastly predates both the church it is next to and the religion that the church was constructed to celebrate.
A special place, and a special tree.
The tree had the profound effect of making me think about what growth I should consider in the coming year. I certainly will not be around for as long as this noble tree so I need to make choices about what I will do – what branches I will strengthen to stand firm against the winds of change that no doubt will blow. And which others to allow to remain flexible so they bend in the breeze.
So, as we start our new year I will be drawing on the strength this tree has gifted me from its’ boughs, which were heavy laden with the fresh snow. Learning from the message that comes from its roots deep in the soil.
I hope you too will be considering what areas you wish to grow over the coming year.
My best wishes,
Peter
