Imperfection

Colonial Williamsburg. An old gnarled imperfect tree.
(Click picture for larger view)

"If you look closely at a tree you'll notice it's knots and dead branches, just like our bodies. What we learn is that beauty and imperfection go together wonderfully." ~ Matthew Fox

Part of this old tree grows straight and strong; but right next to the ground is a large branch that long ago became twisted and finally died, its hollow center decayed. Perhaps lightening split the tree and this branch, toppled and leaning, still maintained a lifeline to the mother tree; drawing for a while on the water and nutrients in the soil. Eventually, it must have outgrown it's tenuous root supply and with the work of disease and insects, began to die. In death the misshaped branch is wide and beautiful; character etched into the grooves and hollowed out core. Over the last hundred years it has been home and shelter for squirrels, mice and other small creatures and though imperfect when compared to the tall straight trees beside it; it's beauty is unmistakable.

Such it is with individuals. Beauty is more than a shapely body or blemish-free skin. Beauty is strength of character, depth of conviction and honor in our actions; and beauty such as this can be seen and appreciated in spite of the outer imperfections.

Submission for Photo Friday topic "imperfection". (end of post)