Updated: May 24, 2020

Aren’t trees amazing forms to be celebrated? Their branches grow as they need, seeking sunlight by jutting out, up, sometimes down, sometimes parallel to the earth, sometimes resting on the earth, yet always strengthening over time.

I’ve been pondering the definition of growth and progress.

Recently, I celebrated my birthday, and I’m fortunate to be in an area where some of the parks are still open during COVID-19 restrictions. So, I took myself on a 10-mile solo hike. 

As I trekked up the mountainside, I took special joy in noting the twists, turns, and shapes of the trees. Perhaps because it was my birthday, I was a bit more nostalgic as I reflected on the past year.  

Many of the moments I recalled had much more to do  with understanding, exploration, allowing myself space to be in the neutral zone, not judging any of my thoughts or feelings. (If you’re interested in more on ‘the neutral zone’, I recommend  “Transitions,” by William Bridges). 

Much like the branches of a tree, I believe progress comes from movement, regardless of the direction. Branches are still alive–and strengthening–even when they rest on the earth rather than point to the sky.

How do you see progress and growth?

#development #reflection #move #growth #progress #advance