The Inspirational Story of Our Magnolia Tree: Perseverance, Growth, and Resilience

About 16 years ago, Neal and the girls gave me a magnolia for Mother’s Day. We planted it in the backyard, near the deck, and that baby grew and bloomed over the years, making me happy. In 2016, we were redoing our septic, and the magnolia had to be moved further. So, we moved her, and she thrived.

A few years later, we had a harsh winter and heavy snowfall. One day, I woke up and saw that a heavy branch from a nearby tree had fallen on the magnolia, splitting it in half and breaking the very top. I was devastated. I thought she would never come back from this.

As soon as we could, we went outside and removed the broken branches. Then, we waited. Spring came. I could see the blooms forming and then bursting open. Soon after, the leaves came in, and the magnolia, although broken and misshapen, stood her ground and bloomed.

About four years ago, a second trunk formed and grew right through the broken part of the magnolia tree, reaching higher and higher each year. Today, our magnolia stands strong in the backyard, near the stream, blooming twice each spring and mid-summer and growing taller and fuller.

When I decided to share this story with you, I researched about magnolias and found this amazing information.

What is the spiritual meaning of magnolia leaves?

Magnolias commonly symbolize purity, femininity, and nobility. Because they’ve existed for millions of years, they also represent perseverance. The petals’ colors may also hold additional meanings. For example, pink magnolias represent friendship and youth, while yellow blossoms represent the sun and positivity.

And, this

What are the benefits of magnolia leaves?

Magnolia has anxiety-reducing effects. Its chemicals might kill bacteria in the mouth, which might help prevent cavities or reduce gum swelling. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, magnolia is used to treat the “stagnation of qi,” as well as depression and anxiety.

Reading this only affirmed what I already knew about our magnolia tree. Through change, trauma, and loss, she persevered and continued to bloom. She found a way to grow around her broken limbs and stand firm. I can still see where she was wounded, but this only makes me love her even more. She inspires me.

July has been a brat of a month.

Once again, we are caught up in an ongoing and intensifying storm of global unrest, national chaos, and natural disasters. The intense heat, humidity, and rainstorms have kept me mostly inside, preventing me from doing what I enjoy. All this makes staying grounded and maintaining a positive outlook challenging. I have to dig deep into my toolkit and use what I know works every single day.

Meditation, poetry, meaningful conversations, my garden, and nature have always provided support and inspiration. I often share the lessons my garden has taught me through the seasons and the continued lessons on boundaries and balance as I battle the invasives, which, in case you are wondering, are doing great this year.

I feel grateful that the magnolia reached out to me and drew my attention so that I could find in her story the inspiration I need these days to hold my ground and focus on the goodness that surrounds me.

We are all stronger and more resilient than we think we are. Reflecting on our personal stories can help us find the source of our strength. Engaging in activities that renew our spirit and recharge our sense of hope helps us become grounded and focused.

How are you feeling these days?

Is your hopeful self being swept by the murky waters of national and global events and natural disasters, not to mention whatever may be happening in your life?

We each have our preferred ways of self-soothing and protecting our mental and physical well-being. When the noise gets too loud, we may lose our balance and forget that we have the tools we need to deal with it.

Here are some reminders on how to create an oasis of calm for yourself in the course of your day:

• Unplug! Being informed and aware does not mean engaging in chaos 24-7. Do your best to avoid the crazy makers.
• Engage your creativity.
• Take mental health breaks by going for a walk, dancing in your living room, reading, listening to music, or doing some simple stretches.
• Prepare a healthy and yummy meal for yourself and your loved ones, and enjoy it. Linger at the table and don’t turn the TV on.
• Make a cup of your favorite beverage and sit in your favorite spot to enjoy it.
• Throughout your day, pause, take four slow, deep breaths, and imagine the stress and anxiety leaving your body with each exhale.
• Be an oasis of reason and calm for someone else.

These are just some suggestions. I would love to know what works for you. Scroll down and share your thoughts.

If you find comfort and inspiration in the company of like-minded women, read about The Circle of Women and join us next month. I have been writing guided meditations for the gathering for three years now. Recently, I completed a Masterclass on Integrated Guided Meditation with Jack Kornfield, and I loved it so much that I decided to incorporate guided meditation into my work with individual clients as well.

If you want to explore and experience Integrated Guided Meditation, contact me, and let’s schedule a time to talk.

Thank you for being here.