Stepping out for a walk, not too far along the path, there it was, a most beautiful tree. It had a strong, healthy trunk and rather smooth bark, a bounty of branches and countless leaves of green. I had noticed it previously, but today, with the light from the morning sun it captured my attention more fully, beckoning for me to come closer. In doing so, I found myself under a canopy provided by the branches and leaves. Looking up, I was filled with awe.

At the base there appeared to be two trunks that, not all that high off the ground, had changed course and melded into one, continuing to grow strong for many, many more feet toward the sky. From the trunk, it was striking to see the branches of varying size growing out in many different directions and all holding leaves of green – full of character and life. And though each branch and leaf has its own peculiarities, essentially every part of the tree shared the same essence.

Marveling once again and breathing in, I think, “Freedom.” This is what freedom is. It is to stay connected, drawing strength and sustenance, inspiration and wisdom… to hold fast and firm to authenticity in environments of all kinds. Truly, freedom is to choose and walk the path, ever mindful and ever faithful to the Source.

But you are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises” of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. – 1 Peter 2:9