Our trees are bare. Strong winds roar through naked branches. I appreciate trees in all seasons. During winter, they teach me about vulnerability, resilience, and courage. There’s no place to hide—no protective leaves—just bare branches. During this pandemic (and its inexpressible stresses), we’re all raw, vulnerable, and bare. Still, we often protect our tender hearts. 

On Friday, I found this cracked, beautiful leaf in a nearly frozen puddle. Just like the trees, it teaches me to be real. When life is complicated and messy, our soft spots are exposed. Our fussiness, irritability, silence or talkativeness, excuses or unneeded apologies, and internal temper tantrums show up. When our soft spots are exposed (even poked!), we curl up in a protective ball.

The trees and leaves encourage us to be more brave. We can allow sun to illuminate our wounds. We can let love in; let people in. Share our stories: How are you? How am I (really, truly)? Ask for help. Cry when we need to cry. Laugh when we need to laugh. Stop pretending we’re okay when we’re not. Recognize our own strength (vulnerability is a strength). Set boundaries when needed. Give from a place of abundance, not lack. Release burdens. Allow ourselves to rest. Embrace the imperfect, unique, beautiful light that shines from within.

As shortened days descend during a global pandemic, it’s vital to remember there is light. There’s light inside me, inside you, inside everyone. There’s light in our next action or non-action. There’s light in this moment, even if you feel crappy or depressed or anxious. There’s light because I’m here with you. You are not alone. I’m feeling these same emotions, losing my s**t, opening to the (tender) rawness, and beginning again. Collectively, we can place a hand on our heart: May I love myself just as I am in the moment; May I embrace my messiness; May I live a life that is true and courageous and kind.