Being Exposed, Me & the Trees, Southard’s Pond, Babylon, NY
I instantly feel the stress lift from my shoulders when I step into the woods of Southard’s Pond. Like an old friend she wraps her arms around me, welcomes my presence and embraces my existence. A soft drizzle chills my face ever so slightly just enough to challenge my slumber. My dog, Bentley’s excited squeal affirms my decision to
return here, a place that I did not realize I was missing for so long. I tune into the sound. A few lone birds share their voices. I’m surprised at how many of the trees have shed their layers since I last took notice, exposing themselves to the possibilities of winter. Many of them are stout and grounded though vulnerable and bare. The clothed trees suggest a dominance as they portray their colors of green and yellow sometimes red and orange. It is just at first glan
ce, however, because examining them proves that they all share a part. Regardless of how they appear, most are rooted; growing in their own direction, the direction they were meant to. Perhaps I relate better to the bare trees this morning as I myself am dropping the layers that shield my soul. Vulnerable to being judged or even worse, unnoticed. This process, however, has inspired me to discover nests and branches allowing me to get to the roots and see where I came from and what my purpose is. Being exposed reveals my truth in a way that I can not hide which also means I can be free. And as these woods so clearly 
demonstrate, the process of each and every individual element is different. Each tree has its own perfect process and it’s own perfect pace of shedding and revealing a layer that illustrates the authenticity of its existence. That awareness, for today, is enough.