Vulnerability

October 10th

Yellow and red autumn leaves look so beautiful in the mid-morning sun. But each fallen leaf strips cover from branches and makes them more and more vulnerable to cold rains and heavy winds and freezing temperatures. And soon the snows will come. Each tree becomes exposed to the changing weather. Trees will survive the changing season only if they are well-grounded with robust and solid roots. Others will wither and rot and decay. Just like the leaves under cover of snow will become mulch and provide nutrients for the next year.

Oftentimes life gives a false hope — a moment of brightness and warmth and colors. Those moments strip the protective covers and leave one vulnerable to cold change and winds that can break the weak. Only by being grounded and rooted — to people, or places, or beliefs, we can survive and thrive.

I am so unbelievably lucky that I have it. When I look around, I see solid foundations that will carry me for the rest of my life. I don’t question anymore if I deserve it. It happened. I benefit from it and will cultivate it further. I will not give up and wish for all those who are struggling to have strength and perseverance. Each day, little by little, something great can grow in everyone’s life. Don’t give up — build your strength on your failures and accept help from others.