The Tree
By: Pamela Linde Leigh ©1997

One day, I noticed a scrubby tree growing
on the side of a jagged cliff.
It wasn't really pretty in comparison to it's
magnificent brothers and sisters
safely nestled in the thriving plateau above.
I sat and pondered how a tiny seedling
could have blown into this rocky hillside
found enough dirt to cover itself
and not been blown away.
I marveled at how difficult it must have been
for the roots to find nourishment and
shelter in such a precarious location.

As I continued to gaze at this tree
I started to see a particular graceful beauty
in the way it's branches and roots
adorned this otherwise barren cliff
and as I looked more intently,
I noticed a bird's nest perched
on the highest limb
with a baby eaglet poking out his
fuzzy little head.

And then in a grand swooping motion
our revered majestic bald eagle
came gliding in to feed her young
and made her presence - quite Known.
Her sharp eyes had found me there
from thousands of feet in the air.
She paused long enough to
stare into me with a gaze
I think I shall never forget!

Suddenly I realized the importance
of this scrubby tree beaten by severe winds
and barely surviving the scorching sun.
It was a protected tower for the most
regal and beautiful of birds.
Here alone, removed from the security above,
the tree stood strong and unyielding to whatever came
and gave her life in order
that our symbol of freedom would
once again grace our skies.

I smiled and realized...
She was selected by the eagle "because"
of her position, not in "spite" of it.
Rest in God's perfect plan for your life.
His reflection "through you"
isn't about being like everyone else,
It's about - being the original creation
He designed you to be!

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