The Ugly(?) Tree
(Reflection - October 1999)
There is no way you can miss it. From any window in the front of the house, the tree stands out many feet above its fellows. And since it is a pine tree, it’s even more prominent when the surrounding trees, all deciduous, drop their leaves.
The height is extraordinary for such a pine in this area. The problem, however, is that something must have happened when the tree was young. Its crown is disproportionately large and the branches are far larger on one side than the other making it appear lopsided. The effect is rather extraordinary as it towers there, looking quite out of place. In fact, one might even say it looks rather ugly. But that tree can’t go anywhere; it can’t duck its head to become less noticeable; it simply has to stand there growing taller and more prominent every year.
I imagined what the scene would be like without that prominent pine. The tree line would be regular with no point of emphasis. In fact it would look like any other forest scene in the area. Actually, I think I like it better the way it is, unique, memorable all because of that one irregular tree.
Some people are like that tree, standing out for some reason of appearance, personality or unusual ability. Unlike the tree, however, people can hide; they can slouch, or duck their heads, change their appearance, pretend to be what they are not or avoid contact with others. If we are the different one, we easily can think we’re ugly. And others may find us uncomfortable to have around, because we don’t fit the stereotype they have accepted as the norm.
Take away that unique person and the scene may be more ordinary, but far less interesting and less likely to produce something of unique and memorable good.
If we’re like that prominent pine, let’s be ourselves, the way we’ve been shaped by the circumstances of life, seeking to serve God with our unique abilities. If we have that person in our family or ecclesia, let’s appreciate the unique contributions he can make.
Looking again at that pine tree, I can see it’s not ugly at all; it has a beauty all its own, different and memorable.
Don Styles