Keepers of the Light

    Their complexity makes them beautiful. Curving over pathways, shading picnic tables and gracing gardens, branches form a canopy over many settings. Geometric patterns arise as the tips of the branches and leaves grow outward seeking sunlight. This growth is typically seasonal and often occurs in spring and early summer.

     Sunlight, water and air are crucial for growth and nourishment. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy .  Leaves contain chlorophyll, a green compound that is a photo receptor. Water is drawn up through the root system and combined with carbon dioxide that enters the leaves' pores. Light is the catalyst that creates glucose and a release of oxygen to the atmosphere surrounding the tree.
     The molecular structure of  chlorophyll is a ring centered around a  magnesium atom. In the human body, the oxygen transporter, hemoglobin has a similar ring structure but is centered around an iron atom.       http://www.chm.bris.ac.uk/motm/chlorophyll/chlorophyll_h.htm
There are three striking similarities between branch and human growth that are worth exploring.

Chlorophyll Molecule

     Branches grow from the tips or edges of their comfort zones. There must be a stable root system for a tree to flourish, but new growth always comes from the tips. If you have ever seen a nail or wound in a tree, it does not travel higher on a tree trunk; the growth happens closer to the sky not the  earth. The intricate patterns of branches bring beauty. The same is true for people. It is the complexity of a person that reveals their true beauty. Real growth occurs when people push past expectations and look up. Whether it's learning something new or thinking in a new way, this is where the growth occurs.
    Oxygen is the second parallel. Everyone learns about plants in elementary school, yet we take them for granted. Plants continually cleanse the air and give off oxygen that we need to live. We breathe so automatically. Unless there is a problem, we don't think about it. Our bodies need oxygen to function and thrive, but we rarely take the time to refresh ourselves with a deep breath and quiet.
     Light is the final and most important factor. Without light there is no photosynthesis and no growth for plants. For human beings, love is our light. Children in orphanages wither without it. Grumpy people bloom in its presence. Faces shine when they feel it. It is a gift that anyone can give, at any time.  Theodore Roethke wrote, " Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light." This holiday season, may we be keepers of the Light.