What Mothers and Trees Have in Common!

As we celebrate mothers this month I find myself reflecting on how intentional care and nurturing can produce incredible results in our lives. Many mothers invest in a future they may never fully see. Planting trees is similar. Sometimes we plant not just for ourselves but for future generations.

I still remember being very young probably in Grade 1 when I called one of my aunts by her first name without adding Aunty so and so... hehee. I can assure you I was corrected very quickly and very intentionally. To this day even in her absence I still find it difficult to call my elders by name. Some lessons truly stay rooted.She probably did that from a place of hope that what she was teaching would remain. Like many mothers they nurture us believing we will grow into great people not only for society but also for ourselves.

So like a seed they begin by grounding us in values, character faith, beliefs and so much more. At that moment there is no outward evidence of what we will become. They simply create the best conditions however they know how. They water us. They protect us. Then they wait. They hope that one day they will begin to see the fruits of their labour.
And yes, just like trees we grow.

From one phase to another we slowly take root. Day by day our identity becomes clearer just like a tree eventually reveals whether it is a mango tree or a baobab. It is the same with children. With time the face becomes more defined and you begin to hear statements like she is a copy of her mother.
But that is only the beginning.

As we continue growing and discovering our potential some become preachers, teachers, content creators, doctors, psychologists and even creative writers of thoughtful pieces like this to appreciate them.

Just like trees, mothers nurture, protect and give often without asking for anything in return.
This month we celebrate our mothers and honor them for their patience, protection, consistency, love and plant a tree with them to honor their nurturing legacy!

Happy Mother’s Day.