What would life be like as a tree? Standing, never changing location, watching generations go by, yet remaining where you've always been. I think about this a lot when we return to my hometown. I guess it baffles me and leaves me in a state of awe to think of the sandy bluffs and cottonwood trees winding along the wide North Platte river remaining the same even when I seem to change significantlly each year I return. My mom and dad crossed this river and passed these trees many times when they were dating. These same trees saw me visit my grandparents most weekends, hang out with my friends as a teenager, drive home from college during breaks, and now bring my own daughter on vacation. I have changed so much, yet these trees seem eternally the same.
I realize how self-centered this whole idea sounds. Yes, life does go on without me. Most of my conversations during our visit with family consist of what's changed in their lives and communities. My family and friends seem to be able to breathe, eat, work, and play all without my supervision and involvement. Yet returning home, brings out such a nostalga in me that is sad and somewhat alarming to me when buildings change and people move.
That's probably why the unchanging, solitary life of a tree is comforting to think about.
