The Indomitable Oak
Scars and all
Good Morning!
Firstly, I’d like to wish our LGBTQ readers a happy pride month 🌈 Regardless of who you love or how you identify, this newsletter welcomes, respects, and deeply appreciates all of our readers. You will always have a home here.
In today’s edition…
Morning Microdose: The Indomitable Oak
Myth of the Day: It’s hard to stand up for others without being seen as aggressive or confrontational.
Action Item: Are you an Indomitable Oak?
(1) Morning Microdose
The Indomitable Oak
I went for a run walk in my favorite park last night. I usually run the park’s trails, but after Wednesday’s back injury, it was either walking or making the pain worse, so I chose the former. But I’m glad I did because, for the first time, I observed the Indomitable Oak.
This particular oak is the only shade tree along a 1-mile stretch of a steep uphill trail. In the summertime, when the trail is brutally hot (over 100 degrees), it protects hikers from the sun with its huge canopy of lush green leaves. Truly, it must be 100 years old, and for a century has grown into a proud giant, despite rooting into a steep drop-off.
What caught my attention last night, however, was the black spray paint and carvings that covered the trunk. People operating in minimum-brain power mode had tagged it and stuck knives into the bark because they had nothing better to do than demonstrate superiority over a plant.
And yet, the oak continues to offer respite, even after being defaced by paint and blades. That’s why I call it the Indomitable Oak. Despite the harm that has come to it, the tree is unwavering in its grace; still rooted firmly into the ground, scars and all.
Are you an Indomitable Oak?
People who are Indomitable Oaks possess a quiet strength and resilience that inspires others to be their best selves, even in the face of adversity.
They are the kind of people who listen without judgment, offer support without hesitation, and remain steadfast in their beliefs and values, even when it's difficult or unpopular.
They understand that life can be tough, but they refuse to let that dampen their spirit or dim their light. Instead, Indomitable Oaks stand firm in their convictions, protecting and providing sanctuary to those who need it most.
Whether it's fighting against injustice or simply being a shoulder to lean on, the Indomitable Oaks in the world are always there for others, rooted firmly in their beliefs and values, scars and all.
(2) Myth of the Day
It’s hard to stand up for others without being seen as aggressive or confrontational.
There are many ways to stand up for others without being aggressive or confrontational. For example, you can show support by listening, offering words of encouragement, or simply being present. Additionally, standing up for someone does not mean that you have to agree with them or their beliefs. It simply means that you are willing to support them and advocate for their rights and well-being.
This is the mindset of an Indomitable Oak.
(3) Action Item
If you are an Indomitable Oak, take a moment to appreciate all that you do and the impact you have on others. If you’re not quite there yet, that’s ok too. Cultivating an Indomitable Oak spirit takes time, effort, and a willingness to stand firm in your convictions, even when it's hard. Remember, life is tough, but so are you.
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