We see the branches
But the roots are invisible to us
When the tree sheds its leaves
We may think it has died

But appearances are deceiving
There is so much we don’t see
And often it’s the hidden that is important
Appearances can deceive

While the branches sleep their winter sleep
The roots are alive and well
They are patiently waiting for good weather
To help the branches awaken

When spring comes we see with delight
That the tree was always alive
To see reality and not just form
We need to look deeper down

We need to know the spiritual laws
In order to realize
That what we consider calamity
May be a healing balm
What we consider misfortune
Can be a gift in disguise
Old leaves need to be shed
For new ones to grow
We have to look at the result
Not how things look

With insight, faith, and heavenly guides
We will learn to navigate this life of trials
We will learn to see the rainbow
At the end of the storm
We will learn to be patient
Mediate, and grow

On this first day of spring
I look outside
The trees are bare
But it won’t be long
Before they will wear their
Garments of green
Before their blossoms will
Perfume the streets

Lida Berghuis
March 21st, 2011