Some trees, like some people, use the wounds of their past to shape them for sheltering. They grow to have room in their hearts for all and that certain open-armed welcome you just know you will need someday.
Others go on to be more nurturing. They serve and give generously, providing those who come to them with nothing less than plenty. We will look at some of those types of trees, today.
And, although these trees offer tantalizing refreshments, let us not forget the harm they endured to become what they are:
It can be hard to imagine how these trees must have looked when they were going through all this scarring and the needed recovery, but now they look inviting, as if something special might be happening in their lives.
What about you?
Home's Cool! 
I love the warmth and wisdom in these words.
🙂
Why, thanks, David! I love how a picture can add to words!
I’m a big fan of moss. These trees are lovely. Love the holes and movement in trees. Nature. ahhhhhh
Oh, I know, Mel, I love these things, too. And cherish them. However, I know the holes are a sign all is not well with the tree. Usually these trees die early, often of communicable problems which can ruin an entire forest. The good steward must manage the whole thing and not be sidetracked by one hole. It is sad when a tree must go, sort of like the amputation of an arm, or something, but it saves the rest of the body.
Aren’t we funny to love these things that really are like scars?!
But I do.
Hey! I love all trees!
I know you do. I have favorites–and I want to do a series on the beauty of the bark on certain ones–but really, they all are worth the protection, aren’t they.
A tree is a gift; a huge tree is a huge gift, not to be taken lightly, certainly to be treated with greater wisdom than I have.
We are trying really hard to do what is best, to consider ALL the trees we have been trusted with. Facts are, sometimes one tree is a danger to the others. Hmm. Just like people again. Hmm..
Now the trees offer housing to birds, I call them tree condos! Lovely post.
Thanks, tbn! Yes, in spite of, even because of, their damaged youth, they are able to offer something to another. May we all be like them!
The knottier the better! Beautiful thoughts and beautiful photos, katharine. Just as with people, I’m much more drawn to trees that have weathered some tough times. There’s character in them there limbs.
The perfectly straight and narrow in each hold much less appeal. Thank you for the lovely thoughts and the lovely photos.
Debbie
And I thank YOU for your comments, here.
Character. Yes, that is what it is. We each have a skill or tendency that we can contribute, not just the ones of us who had perfect, easy upbringings. And we each can find a niche where we need to be, where we best can serve, according to the lives we were dealt. The strong as well as the weak can contribute, alongside each other.
So true my friend. It is amazing how God speaks TO you and through you.
Why, thanks, Karen! His speaking TO me is of no use if I forget to listen,though. Listening is the hard part. Oh, me . . . 😉
Katharine, there is wisdom in your replies to comments, as well.
M.
Oh, thanks, Maria!
I cherish this compliment from you.
Wisdom is so important, and is something I truly want and pursue.
It’s evident in your careful replies.
Lord bless you!
Thanks! May He bless you, too!