Where Do You Plant Your Trees?

My husband's and my first house was a little townhouse about 20 minutes from the University where we both worked, me as a grad student, my husband for employment. It was perfect for us, small and secure and when we closed the door we were in our own little bubble. We bought it new, and everything worked. During the winters we burned an occasional log in the little fireplace in the basement.

When we moved, a young couple took over and dressed things up a bit -- new curtains in the window, a few flowers planted around the mailbox. They also planted a little willow in the front yard that looked so pretty, with droopy arched branches that swayed gracefully in the wind.

Flash forward about 15 years. While driving by for old times' sake, I was shocked to see that little tree had grown pretty big. The arched branches now blocked the windows. Although the tree itself was shapely, it no longer looked good where it was. I couldn't help thinking that if I owned the house again I'd want to remove it, but that wouldn't be an easy job with houses and cars so close together. And the tree stump? These are always a chore to grind, and leave a hold in the ground.

Although I have fond memories of that little house, happily it is no longer mine and I DON'T have to deal with that tree. Driving away, I couldn't help reflecting that lie is like that tree.

We often plant pretty little trees in our life: sports or hobbies, courses of study or people we befriend. These things when they appear are charming. However, it's important to remember that trees grow, and can outgrow their original purposes. Being on the college swim team is great, but if it prevents you from getting better grades maybe you'll regret it when you start looking for a job. A friend may be sunny and fun, but if you and the friend end up wasting a lot of time this may not be a good ultimate thing. If you decide to do anything for short term gain, without looking at the long term costs, you may ultimately regret that little tree.