The Giving Tree

In my lap sits one of favorite books on the planet. It is a simple story with just a few words on each page, illustrated with the most basic drawings.

But it moves me…

I have given this book as gifts. Read it to my children. Taught it to my class. I love to read it aloud. I love to recite in my head.

It’s the book I want to write. As a writer, there is an element of “Why didn’t I think of that?…. even if it was written before I was born.

And it’s the book I want to live.

I want to be a tree. Grounded. Shelter. Constant. Sacrificial. Inspiring. I want to bend and give and delight.

And I am struggling with seasons right now. I am having a hard time shifting focus. And forgetting. And remembering. And being patient. And knowing my place for people… whom today is not my day to love.

I hear their big news via facebook, wonder about them in the middle of the night, and whisper prayers of good things for them. And I wait…like a tree. Rooted. Quiet. Their initials carved on my heart. Wondering if I have anything to give, comfort, offer.

And I page through this children’s book seeking solace in knowing what it means to give. To receive. To wait.
To be waited for. To love. To be loved. Even if this is not that season…or ever will be again. ♥