The Aspen Grove

I have been surrounded by the aspen tree all my life.  Most people aren’t aware just how unique these trees are.  Unless you take the time to notice, you may not see that this is a tree that does not typically grow as an individual but rather is surrounded by many, standing in a grove.  This grove of trees has a unique connection.  Their root system is interconnected with one another, which enables them to share nutrients and resources in order to support and give stability to one another.  This unbelievable strength, support and persistence will even allow roots to stay dormant for years before deciding to push their way to the surface.  An aspen groves root system can even withstand fires, which to the human eye look like complete devastation, only to at the right moment have new growth appear and a new forest start.  This is also a tree that serves others beyond their own species.  They will provide everything from cover, homes and food for animals to medicinal purposes for humans.  It truly is amazing!

As the start of a new I Ho Chuan year approaches and a new team goes forward, I believe there is a lot we can learn from this tree.   Like the aspen, we can feed each other’s growth.  We can offer the support and resources that will give each of us the stability to stand on our own.  With this support, we will be persistent and successful, sometimes even in directions different than the ones we had in mind from the beginning.   As a group standing together we will initiate change in those around us.  We will stand out and serve our community and the lives of those both near and far.  We will make a difference J 

Alana Regier

http://alanaregier.blogspot.ca