Things aren't always as they seem

The other day I spent some time at the river, contemplating life as I watched the water and canoers go by.  I sat there for a long time with my feet in the water, made some pebble sculptures including this cute little foot ==>

took a few pictures and generally enjoyed a nice, quiet afternoon.

It was wonderful, and reminded me how vital nature is to my well being.  Especially water.  In fact I've decided to make it a point to spend a few hours or more each week relaxing and recharging as I absorb the serenity and peace nature offers. Ahhhh....

Contemplation

One of the many things I contemplated was a tree growing on the far bank of the river.  Yes the tree on the left.  And on the right.  Same tree.

Pretty amazing, huh?

Despite being mostly uprooted and completely horizontal, that tree still lives and actually appears to be doing pretty well.  What a good reminder that (a) things aren't always what they appear and (b) it is possible to survive, and even thrive despite what seems to be a pretty severe handicap.

As humans we often make snap judgments about things, especially things we deem inferior or "off" in some way.  And we often do this without knowing the whole story (tree on the left).  By taking time to step back and see the entire scene (tree on the right), we can gain much better understanding of the world around us.  We can also come to understand that what seems like a handicap or shortcoming to us may not be, and that people can and do thrive despite them not fitting into our little box of "normal."  Something to think about, huh?