Fall in New England is like no place else on earth. The proximity of ocean and mountain creates a display of color that is without parallel. It is these different geographical features which help give the foliage here its reputation for brilliance. A splendour unique to this particular region of the world.
The point being, that the trees themselves are not solely responsible for this beautiful display of color. It needs the combination of both nearby mountains and ocean. Together, they provide the degree of beauty for which this area is famous. And that is a fact of nature.
The same is true on a smaller scale. A maple of stature, with outspread boughs of burgundy and rust is still just a tree. Impressive looking – yes. But it remains exactly what it is… a solitary sentinel, vulnerable to all the varying elements of nature.
There is no protection from fierce and buffeting winds. No shelter from wet, heavy layers of snow. No support in driving rains, from eroding streams and gullies. For all its eye-catching beauty this tree stands alone. And as such, will have to struggle harder to survive, in order to maintain its place as part of Nature’s enduring landscape.
Now, consider this tree surrounded by others…within a grove of oak, and alder, birch and elm. Their colors in Autumn just breathless with brilliance.
Shades of garnet and amber, topaz and citrine, merging together in a jewel-like display amidst the darker, woodland evergreens.
It’s hard to tell where one branch or limb stops, and another begins. Together, they blend in a glorious harmony of color shining bright amidst the surrounding landscape. Their very presence ringing out a symphony of praise and thanksgiving.
Together, they are strong. Larger, overhanging boughs protect smaller, more fragile ones from the wind. Many limbs make the weight of snow easier, lighter to bear. Roots intertwining beneath the soil, offer an anchor from rain erosion. Even the sunlight is filtered, easier to take; less apt to burn tender growing shoots.
Such an affinity provides much-needed strength in the face of life’s storms and turmoils. Thereby increasing the woodland’s span of life, and also its quality. There is a community existing beneath the surface which often goes overlooked. Yet it is an important part of Nature’s design, manifesting a harmony of spirit, which fills the heart of any onlooker with well-being and joy.
Is life any different for us? We were meant to live our lives together… regardless of our differences, and even because of them. For such variety enhances, and enriches the life we currently know. Individuals, each with their own unique color of personality, living in accord and harmony. Blending our strengths and weaknesses, in order to maintain the balance needed to navigate this world.
Together, we are better able to weather the storms of life. Together our joys increase, and our sorrows become bearable. Together, there is no alone. And therein lies our strength… as His Strength and Presence, becomes one with us. Thus, are we able to face any challenge that life might present. To know a peace and satisfaction in the midst of this turbulent world.
And so, we search out and look for the brightness and light, which is inherent in every person. Striving to see the goodness within one another, in spite of our differences… as well as because of them. Seeking out all the varying shades of reds and rusts, oranges and yellows, which bloom and live within each and every soul.
What better praise can we give our Creator, than to live together in harmony of spirit. Like the trees of the forest, our differences merge into a pleasing variety of colour. Blending individual lives, one with another into community. Ringing out a polyphonic symphony for all to hear, that they might know joy… and fullfilment.
Come Autumn are we reminded yet again…
“One touch of Nature makes the whole world kin.”
(Wm. Shakespeare)
4 thoughts on “Together”
Beautiful words and beautiful pictures. Yes, New England is beautiful during the fall season.
Your words nature promotes harmony and balance are so true.
Grace and I are preparing for some time in Florida, and I will call you when we return.
Anna Jean
New England…and I… miss you. Enjoy your time in FLA!! I will look forward to hearing from you when you return.
Truer words never spoken. Beautiful metaphors. Thank you for your always illuminating posts, Bev.
Bless you for so faithfully reading and always giving such encouraging feedback.