It’s hard not to feel a sense of doom and gloom when you can’t see the sky. When you can’t go outside and breathe in a deep breath of fresh air. When precious Elders have trouble breathing in their own homes–the smoke has seeped in through cracks here and there.
Our needs are so basic and specific right now. We are praying for rain and no lightning. Rain to clear the air. Rain to help our beloved firefighters in their dangerous and impossible work.
I pause and look out my window. I focus on the few trees who are close enough to stand in front of the curtain of smoke.
These trees. Whose species-families have such a long and blessed relationship with Mother Earth. Who know about surviving, thriving, renewal. How precious they are. I pause and wait for the lesson from my Auntie-Uncle teacher trees. What message do they have for me today?
“This too shall pass,” I think they’re saying. I lean forward, really paying attention. They continue teaching. “Be like us, keep growing the best you can in the place you are.” The air is dead still. But their message reaches me. “This too shall pass,” they reaffirm.
What wisdom these trees have. Their deep roots reach the moisture far underground. Sure, the surface of the Earth is bone dry and flammable. But the trees know how to see beyond a curtain of smoke and a dusty patch of ground. Deep roots keep them nourished and balanced. They keep growing. And so can we.
I’m wishing you a day filled with peace and hope so that you may keep growing in the place you are.
The Auntie Way Professional Development Course: End of Year Strategic Planning on September 21 is designed to help you keep growing and reaching your goals.
Michelle M. Jacob 