There is something profoundly moving about the idea of planting a tree when you believe the world is coming to an end. W.S. Merwin’s words suggest that even in the face of total finality, our instinct should not be to hide or to despair, but to create something that lives beyond our own timeline. It is a beautiful testament to the power of hope and the human desire to leave behind a small, green legacy of care. To plant a tree is to perform an act of faith, trusting that life is worth nurturing even when the future seems uncertain.
In our everyday lives, we often face our own versions of 'the last day.' We encounter seasons of endings, whether it is the end of a relationship, the conclusion of a career, or the loss of a dream. In those heavy, quiet moments, it is easy to feel like there is no point in trying anymore. We might feel that if the outcome isn't permanent, the effort isn't worth the energy. But Merwin reminds us that the value of our actions doesn't always lie in their longevity, but in the intention and the love we pour into them while we are here.
I remember a time when I was feeling particularly overwhelmed by changes in my life, much like how I feel when my little nest gets a bit too messy and chaotic. I felt like nothing I did really mattered because everything was always shifting. But then, I started tending to a small succulent on my windowsill. I knew it wouldn't change the world, but the simple act of watering it and watching a new leaf unfurl gave me a sense of purpose. It was my tiny, green way of saying that I still believe in growth, even when things feel uncertain.
We can all find ways to plant our own metaphorical trees. It could be writing a kind note to a friend, starting a small garden, or simply being present for someone in need. These small seeds of kindness are what make the world beautiful, even when we are navigating through shadows. They are our way of contributing to the light.
Today, I want to encourage you to look around and find your 'tree.' What is one small, beautiful thing you can nurture today, simply because it is worth the love? Don't wait for a perfect future to start being kind to the world; start planting right where you are.