“It stole the oak tree’s leaves away.”
Does this mean the tree was naked?
I imagine the leaves on the tree were much like clothing. Every season the tree gets a new wardrobe! And yet in the cold of winter it is stripped of all its leaves and left bare.
Now, I don’t know about you but I HATE even wearing a swimsuit around other people. I can’t imagine standing around others while being buck naked!! And yet if I compare myself to the Oak, that is what I would be! How vulnerable I would feel. My first instinct would probably be to curl up in a ball! Or, perhaps turn around and run!!! But despite these feelings, the Oak stands its ground.
Sometimes the wind strips us naked (so to speak). I find it very interesting that in these moments of vulnerability, I am most teachable.
I also greatly learn from others who share of these moments in their life. Perhaps I will be able to endure something ahead because of strength I have gained from someone else who was willing to share their vulnerability and the teachable moment that was a result.
Or, perhaps I would be able to make a wiser choice and if possible avoid an avoidable circumstance. And even more, perhaps I would feel like I am not alone in my nakedness.
This is the beauty of sharing our “Oak Tree” experiences. I appreciate all who have so personally and tenderly shared a part of your soul. While we aren’t always able to express the degree it has helped, rest assured your words (however put) have touched others hearts.
