Knowledge comes from taking things apart: analysis. But wisdom comes from putting things together. John A. Morrison
The other day when I was at Dukes Creek Falls; I realized I had made a inappropriate statement about trees and friendships a few blog entries back. We are all separate individuals.
As we walked down the path to the waterfalls, there were all kinds of trees on the sides, of steep hills. There are some very mature trees growing in what appears to be very little dirt. Their roots seem to constantly go deeper, and stronger. A combination of water and roots even crack a few of the rocks. This proves to me that if there's a will, God can make a way. :)
Isn't it interesting, you can plant a tree in what seems to be the "perfect soil and conditions,"but it dies. Then there are, trees shooting up in the poorest of living conditions, to become some of the tallest healthiest trees in the forest. Think about it; they have a will, and a creator who provides a way.
As long as we are alive we need to keep growing and learning. The journey shouldn't stop, until we stop existing in these mortal bodies. Sometimes the struggles of life produce the most growth. Most of us will be leaving this life with very tattered bodies. I know Jesus would rather see our souls completely mature, and ready for eternity with Him.
Another principle I noticed was, two different kinds of trees growing alongside each other. One was an Oak or maybe a Gum tree it's roots were woven into a Hemlocks roots. Isn't that interesting? Two totally different kinds of trees intertwined at the roots. They had formed a very strong bond together, breaking through rock and defying the odds. They grew tall and strong together.
My point is this, we may not all be the same, but we can grow in Christ and friendship together as long as we have love, friendship and roots growing together in Christ. One of those trees will probably die before the other one. But I have no doubt that the one that goes on living will continue growing toward the same goals they had together.
Differences can complement and increase value in two different kinds of people. Opposites can add depth and width to each other. The truth is, it's probably healthier for two opposites to be together, than two of a kind. Narrow minded people usually can't think outside the box they've put themselves in.
"God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgement, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. " 1 John 4:16-18 (NIV)
