I drove down Lawyers Road as sleet tickled my windshield. The trees stood bare and black in the dim morning light against the low, gray sky. I noticed the brilliant green underbrush, the new growth of summer, now able to get the light needed for sustaining tender shoots through the winter. I thought how the mature trees shed their leaves creating a protective cover on the ground and allowing light to shine on younger, tender plants. I thought of nature’s kindness to let the small ones keep their leaves a little longer.

This image stayed with me all day. It seemed to be a message of hope. A reminder that with loss comes the opportunity for new growth. An example of sacrifice and service so quietly and perfectly executed. I’m grateful.