A Tree is a Tree

A tree may be found in a forest, but the forest doesn't make the tree a tree. Birds may nestle in the sanctuary of its branches, but the birds don't make the tree a tree. The weary traveler may repose in respite under its shade, but the traveler doesn't make the tree a tree. It may bear apples, pecans, bananas, or nothing at all, but fruit doesn't make the tree a tree. Its foliage may be brown, red, yellow, or green, but leaves don't make the tree a tree.

A tree is a tree because that's what it is.

No matter who surrounds you, or who finds comfort in you, or who finds rest in you, or whether you bear fruit, and certainly no matter the color of your skin, you are you because it's who you are meant to be. Your value is intrinsic, ordained.

Whether bonsai or sequoia, you are you. And you are splendidly made.