A mentor was placed in my life at a time when I was struggling with what my true purpose was. That mentor saw how I was struggling and took me in under her wing. One day, she took me for a walk to explain to me a metaphor she has for trees. I wasn't sure what to expect and I certainly didn't know it would change the way I look at trees forever.
She explained to me that each tree starts out in the same way consisting of only roots and a tiny trunk. Trees share a common starting place with these roots and tiny trunks, but as time passes each individual trees growth pattern is different. Some grow up to be straight and tall, some curl to the side and then return upright. Some sprout many small limbs, some even grow away from the sun. I quickly realized she was trying to help me see that there isn't one way for me and my "tree" to grow. I saw that I had started growing in one direction, but that didn't mean that's how I am always going to grow. Life, like a tree, grows without a step-by-step guide on how to grow. This metaphor gave me the confidence to stop looking at everyone else's trees and to start looking at my own - for it's own individual beauty and offerings.
I identify my own journey and my own tree to the Evergreen Tree - which is the reason why there is that kind of tree in my logo.
Lately, the strength and resiliency that an evergreen resembles has felt more stifling than anything else. How could I feel stifled by the very imagery that gave me such clarity and helped launch my business? While it deeply resonates with me and my heart, it felt like something I used to know. It’s been a feeling that has been on my mind a lot.
Through a series of universally orchestrated events, I found myself staring at some artwork that finally put some clarity around this mental struggle. The artwork was a black and white pine tree that was mirrored by a black and white line drawing of an oak or maple tree (basically a tree that sheds its leaves haha) that was surrounded by beautiful color. I felt like this artwork put meaning to who I am now - outwardly tall, reliable, strong and inwardly wildly creative, willing to shed what no longer serves and not afraid to reinvent herself.
You all know I can find deep meaning in just about anything, and I wanted to share this story with you as a reminder that:
things aren’t always as they seem to be
be open to visual signs that may explain more than words can, and
try not to hold too tightly to what you know / knew to be true. I think everything is always up for question.
Until next time,
💗Kelsey