"An Incontestable Symbol"

In the first paragraph of a short book entitled "The Man who Planted Trees", author Jean Giono states ~

In order for the character of a human being to reveal truly exceptional qualities, one must have the good fortune to observe its action over a long period of years. If this performance is devoid of all egoism, if its guiding motive is unparalleled generosity, if it is absolutely certain that there is no thought of recompense, and that, in addition it has left its visible mark upon the earth, then there can be no mistake.

Consider the people in your life

~ who quietly move in the background and make a slight mark, with the magnitude of that tiny impression causing ripples to carry its meaning beyond just the immediacy of that particular act, ultimately creating dynamic results
~ who behave selflessly, dancing away from rather than toward the limelight, in oblivion of the big drum roll
~ who make significant imprints in the landscape, not just once for pronounced effect and then fading away, but rather staying the course no matter how treacherous

Extraordinary.

Jean Giono's book is about a humble man of such character whose tireless work, that begins with the simplicity of an acorn, produces a multitude. And when the efforts of this man, this Elzeard Bouffier, impress those around him, the results of his endeavors are thus declared

"Incontestable Symbols of the Resurrection".

May the stalwart pine, with boughs stretched in undaunted vigilance over Erin


~ provide a blanket of protection while holding the snow that delights her in winter
~ temper the intensity of the blistering heat while allowing the warmth to enfold her in gracious embrace
~ absorb the harsh winds that threaten to shake the moorings of our souls

with evergreen branches reaching toward heaven
stand firm, tireless
in steadfast allegiance
over my sleeping child.