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1/3/2025 1 Comment Why Do Trees Fall? Why Do Trees Fall?
Have you ever wondered why trees fall? Trees don't fall because they are inherently weak but because their roots haven't developed the strength to anchor them firmly. This simple observation holds profound implications for our lives, serving as a beacon of hope for personal growth and resilience. As I reflect on 2024 and its undeniable truths, I've realized that we are, in many ways, like trees. We, too, have roots that require nurturing and strengthening to withstand the inevitable storms of life. The Tale of Two Trees Some trees grow comfortably where they are planted. These trees bask in the convenience of being watered daily by a sprinkler, content with their easy existence. They don't need to stretch their roots deep to search for life's sustenance. On the outside, they seem healthy and strong. But this superficial security is deceptive. When life's storms rage, these trees often fall, their shallow roots unable to keep them grounded. Over time, broken branches and soft spots make these trees vulnerable to invaders, like carpenter ants, which exploit the wounds to create nests and tunnels. Similarly, when we ignore our sore spots or rely too heavily on surface-level comforts, we expose ourselves to vulnerabilities that can shake us to the core. The Call for Deep Roots Just as trees with unhealed trauma struggle to remain upright in the face of fierce winds, we must also prioritize intentional soul work. We can ensure our roots are firmly grounded in truth and resilience by taking charge of our personal growth, addressing our wounds, and Getting our S.H.I.T. (Strength, Hope, Intentions, Tenacity) Together. How to Strengthen Your Roots in 2025 To thrive in 2025, let's focus on nurturing our roots and ensuring we are deeply anchored in life's true sustenance (GOD). Here are a few guiding principles: Stay Connected to the Source "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned." — John 15:5-6 Let's remain connected to our Creator, the ultimate source of strength and nourishment. Without this connection, our roots cannot grow deep, and our foundation cannot stand. Stay Alert and Be Prayed Up "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." — 1 Peter 5:8 Life requires vigilance and consistency. Stay alert, guard your heart, and constantly pray to stay focused in the face of distractions and attacks that threaten your growth. Bow (Be humble) & Worship (Praise God) "Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!" — Psalm 95:6 "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor." — James 4:10 True strength comes from humility. When we kneel before God in worship, we position ourselves to be lifted in due season. Remember that it's God's Way According to His Word & His Will in His Time! A Year of Intentionality Let 2025 be the year of intentionality—a year when we consciously nurture our roots and strengthen our foundations. As we embark on this journey, may we rise no matter how fierce the storms may be. By committing to intentional body and soul work, we align ourselves with the life God created us to live. Let's embrace this growth journey with courage, faith, and determination, knowing that deep roots will keep us grounded and help us thrive. Together, we can stand tall and resilient, no matter what comes our way. May your roots grow deep, your foundation remain strong, and your branches reach for the heavens. — Dee
1 Comment
  There is life after loss—a life filled with lessons of surrender and strength. As life changes, so do relationships, and sometimes that shift is necessary.
This year, I've learned that determining whether to hold on or let go is a powerful act that requires intentionality, prayer, and deep reflection. The way someone reacts to your concerns matters. Relationships are a two-way street; you can't work harder on someone than they are willing to work on themselves. Acknowledging the rips in a relationship cannot rest on one person's shoulders. Words must align with actions, and the fruits of their labor must be visible. Repair work is not a solo project. It takes two willing partners to mend what's been broken. Trying to fix something alone only deepens the cracks. Be gentle with yourself in this process, and honest about your feelings. Your emotions are valid. Your skepticism isn't a flaw; it's a necessary tool when searching for safety and rest. Remember, self-care is not selfish, it's essential. Relationship restoration takes hard work, commitment, and time. Trust is fragile and can only be regained or rebuilt when both parties are dedicated to honesty and the process. Don't overlook deep-seated character issues—those don't simply disappear. Transformation requires soul work; only the individual can take on that responsibility. The rebuilding process of a relationship isn't easy. It's painful and demanding, but it is possible when both people commit to the work required. However, not every relationship is meant to be mended. Sometimes, release is the most loving act you can offer—for yourself and the other person. I carry these lessons forward with an open heart, preparing for a new year. This season has been one of surrendering what no longer serves me and leaning into the strength I didn't know I had. I am walking into the next chapter with hope, knowing that while I can't repair all rips, there is beauty, growth, and love waiting on the other side of letting go. May we all take the time to reflect on what we're holding onto and what we're willing to release. May we enter the new year with hearts softened by grace yet strengthened by wisdom. Here's to new beginnings, to the endless possibilities that await us, and to the strength we've gained from our experiences. With love and hope, Dee  My sister asked me if I was OK. "Yes," I replied, and it was an honest response. I'm OK, but I'm also weary. I'm holding on to the fact that God isn't a man who can lie to me. My soul is exhausted, but I'm committed to getting my S.H.I.T.—Strength, Hope, Intentions, and Tenacity—together in this season. This season has been arduous. I've wanted to quit multiple times, but the power of His Holy Spirit is making me resilient. I will not give up! I might cry, complain, write, pray, fast, cry some more, worship, talk, and vent, but giving up isn't an option. I'm committed to resilience. Then I received a devotion that said, "Tiredness will sometimes be your companion." Those words comforted me. Instead of feeling ashamed of my humanness, I felt the arms of my Savior wrapped around me. It was a welcoming embrace—one I must remember is always waiting for me. God said He has a plan and will guide me in the way I'm supposed to go and grow. So this weekend, I'm choosing to R.E.S.T.--Release Every Single Thing—so I can continue Putting my S.H.I.T. together. I trust in His plan and find hope in it. I believe 2025 will be a year of manifestation—a year of the things God promised me and mine coming to pass. We've been patiently waiting for our turn, in Jesus' name. If you're feeling weary, I hope this reminds you that tiredness doesn't mean defeat. It's a companion we can acknowledge without letting it define us. Rest, cry, write, pray—do what you need to renew your spirit. The journey may be long, but His embrace will always strengthen us. We will not give up. With love and faith, ✨️Dee  "Scripted" |
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