The Gnarlier We Get, the More Interesting We become
During a recent Community Connections scavenger hunt, I stumbled across an old apple tree on the Haliburton Estates. It immediately caught my attention. Its trunk was twisted and gnarled, its branches weathered by countless seasons. Time had left its mark. It may no longer produce the crisp apples it once did, but standing there, I couldn’t help but think it was absolutely beautiful.
In many ways, we are encouraged to believe the opposite about ourselves. We live in a world that often tells us to hide our age, erase our wrinkles, and chase the appearance of youth. But I don’t want to lose sight of the beauty that comes with growing older.
Our scars tell stories of what we have survived. The lines on our faces speak to the wisdom we’ve earned. Crow’s feet remind us of years spent laughing with people we love. Every mark is evidence that we have lived.
We may no longer have the bodies we had in our twenties. Yet we can still celebrate what our bodies can do: the freedom to walk with a friend, hug a grandchild, tend a garden, paddle a canoe, or simply sit outside and soak in a warm summer evening.
This summer, I’m choosing to focus less on trying to turn back the clock and more on caring for the incredible vehicle I’ve been given. That means nourishing my body with good food, moving in ways that bring me joy, and appreciating every season of life.
Perhaps we’re a little like that old apple tree. A little more weathered. A little more gnarled. But maybe that’s exactly what makes us interesting. And maybe, just maybe, that’s what makes us beautiful.
If you are managing transitions in your life and have not yet taken our Identity and Transition program, starting in September, now is the time to sign up. Just drop Julie a line or give her a call, jwells@landingstrong.com, 902 472-2972.
Warmly,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
