A HOPEFUL HEART â—½ YOU
Roots
by Christina Oberon
I recently visited Sequoia National Park and was struck by the sheer magnitude of the roots of fallen trees. Looking at them and tracing my hand across their ridges, I fell into deep thought with the idea of roots, those forces that connect us to what matters most and nourish us from beneath the surface. Observing these visible roots became a vivid symbol for my own sense of grounding and growth, for what keeps me steady and strong. Roots bind us to our heritage, provide nourishment, and serve as the unseen foundation of who we are.
Walking through the ancient forest, I thought about how, like these trees, I too am supported by a network of connections and experiences that define who I am. Just as roots anchor trees and hold them steady through storms, my “roots” are my family, friends, and the experiences that have shaped me. The values and memories passed down through generations give me stability and perspective, allowing me to stay rooted, even when life is turbulent. I thought about how, in nature, roots are vital for survival. They dig deep, reaching for water and nutrients hidden beneath the surface, while unseen branches stretch towards sunlight and air. The strength of my roots, much like those of the trees I walked among, enables me to reach upward while staying grounded.
This beautiful forest walk also made me reflect on how cultural roots define my place in the world. Family traditions, heritage, and values handed down through the years are part of what makes me who I am. As life gets faster and the world becomes more complex, I realize it’s easy to lose track of this heritage. But stepping back to honor these roots, learning about my ancestors, embracing family stories, and sharing them with my son, can help keep those traditions alive. Much like the roots of a Sequoia, our roots connect us across time, grounding us in our unique stories and giving us a framework to navigate the present.
Standing among those trees, I was reminded, too, of how we’re all connected in ways that aren't always visible. Just as each tree is part of the larger forest, we are part of a broader community, and these connections are like invisible roots that link us all. The characteristic of roots in the natural world teaches us about the importance of having a stable foundation in our lives, a set of core values, supportive relationships, and a strong sense of self. Nurturing my relationships, sharing my experiences with others, and being open to theirs all help create the strength that a community needs to thrive and are a reminder that we are part of something interconnected.
Staring at these massive roots in awe, I kept thinking about how deep their history goes and wondering about all they have endured and withstood over time. It is the same for all of us. Our history goes deep and experiences leave a mark on us. Like a gardener tending to roots so they can grow strong, I have a desire to take the time to explore my inner roots and continue to grow.
Ultimately, I left Sequoia with a heightened interest in my roots, those sources of strength and identity that ground me. My roots give me the resilience to stand tall, the wisdom to grow, and the perspective to pass these connections on. I believe that the deeper and more secure my roots, the more I can give back to the world around me, nurturing the next generation and contributing to the shared story we all create together. It's beautiful to know that embracing these roots, in myself and my family, is one of the most meaningful ways I can honor the life I am building.