A Lesson from Nature

The Loss That Is Forever

When a tree is struck by lightning,
if it survives,
its growth is altered.
A knot may form where the lightning hit.
The growth on one side of the tree may be more vigorous
than on another side,
The shape of the tree may change.
An interesting twist or curious split has replaced what might
have otherwise been a straight line.
The tree flourishes;
it bears fruit,
provides shade,
becomes a home to birds and squirrels.
It is not the same tree it would have been had there not
been a lighting storm,
but some say it is more interesting this way.
Few can even remember the event
that changed its shape forever.

By Maxine Harris
The above poem is from the book: Twenty Things Adopted Kids Wish Their Adoptive Parents Knew. The Author writes about the voices of adopted children being poignant, questioning, and full of loss, fear and hope. It speaks of the crucial importance of grief. The Author, Sherrie Eldridge writes, “Adoption Loss is somewhat difficult to understand”, she gives the gardening technique of grafting to illustrate.

A Lesson from Nature
A grafted tree. Magnificent to behold. One of a kind. Contrary to nature. Luxuriant leaves and intricate roots. Loaded with horticultural challenges for a Gardner,
but ultimately yielding a tree with unparalleled beauty.

The adopted child. Magnificent to behold. One of a kind. Biological features often contrary to yours. Intricate roots that need to be healed. Loaded with behavioral challenges for parents, but ultimately yielding a life of unparalleled beauty.