Planting trees

          Guess what Dad did today? You guessed it; he planted trees (and if you guessed without looking at the post title, you get 10 bonus points).

         Now let me explain the significance of this event. These were no ordinary trees; they were a gift from my parents to my three newest siblings (Daria, Alexander, and Oksana). To us, trees represent permanency and a putting down of roots--no pun intended. God may have built our family in a differently than most, but we firmly believe we are a forever family.

          Each of the three selected their own tree; Daria picked a Red Maple, declaring she loved the color in the fall. Alexander selected a Yellow Apple tree, surprising no one with his desire to have his apples and eat them too. With laughter lines crinkling up his eyes, he asked how soon apples would grow, saying he was hungry. Oksana chose a crabapple, and although we're not sure why, it's a lovely tree.

         The song below reminds me of my parents; in many ways every day they pour themselves into what matters eternally. They intentionally treasure each other and work at keeping their marriage strong. They don't parent from their emotions, but rather patiently guide, correct, and encourage us, keeping their eyes on the fact that they are shaping souls for eternity. Most importantly, they put Christ first in the choices they make as they live their lives. Thank you Dad and Mom, for "planting trees". I love you both so much!




Lyrics:
We chose the spot, we dug the hole
We laid the maples in the ground
To have and hold
As autumn falls to winter sleep
We pray that somehow in the spring 
The roots grow deep


And many years from now
Long after we are gone
These trees will spread their branches 
And bless the dawn


He took a plane to Africa
He gathered up into his arms
An orphan son


So many years from now
Long after we are gone
This tree will spread its branches out and bless the dawn


So sit down and write that letter
sign up and join the fight
Sink into all that matters
Step out into the light
Let go of all that's passing
Lift up the least of these
Lean into something lasting:
Planting trees


She rises up as morning breaks
She moves among these rooms alone
Before we wake
And her heart is so full: it overflows
She waters us with love and the children grow


So many years from now
Long after we are gone
These trees will spread their branches out
And bless the dawn
These trees will spread their branches out
And bless someone 


~Lissie