The Magnolia Tree

Sunday, April 5, 2020 | By Jen Higgins-Newman, BHFH Program Manager

Our magnolia tree is in bloom, and in full pink display. Its breathtaking stillness and serene beauty enrapture me every year, but this year especially.

I have spent many hours staring at this tree. Its buds have been unfolding slowly, beginning when our quarantine began. There is something about it that has been anchoring me, and I wanted to share a glimpse of it with you. 

It also reminded me of a song by one of my husband’s favorite bands, Nahko And Medicine For The People, called “Budding Trees.” (Warning, this song contains some strong language.) 

The first lyrics are: 
In the moon of the budding trees
I was gifted new eyes to see
All of the shifting shape and ways you can be
Wake the dreams into realities

This time of change and uncertainty can also gift us with new eyes to see. To stare at the magnolia tree for hours. To grieve the things we love lost. To lean into the shifting shape of our lives. To (re)discover what truly matters. To let go of the systems that don’t serve us. 

What are you seeing through new eyes?

In Light and community,
Jen