A Tiny Tree, A Big Lesson: The Power We Choose

I find myself again in deep thought…

Hiking among my trees always brings me peace. You might think it is ridiculous that I find trees to be fantastic listeners. But they are!

As their beautiful energy surrounds me, I ask them a simple question:

How is it possible to live next to each other in such harmony for so many years?

Hoping they will share their secret, I wait in silence. I know their roots run deep into the soil, intertwining for miles, feeding and supporting each other with love.

A tiny tree next to me waves its fragile branches in excitement. I bend down to its level and listen to its whispered wisdom.

"For millions of years, we have survived many challenges. Some of us have stood for centuries all over the world. You asked a simple question, so I will give you a simple answer," the little tree says.

“We deeply respect POWER and seek to use it with an open heart and mind”

Then, in a soft, song-like whisper, he recites the real power of the word:

🌿 P – Peace, Patience

🌿 O – Openness, Optimism

🌿 W – Wisdom, Wholeness

🌿 E – Empathy, Evolution

🌿 R – Respect, Resilience

The little tree suddenly stops, bracing itself as a gust of wind emerges from behind the mountains. Then, with a heavy sigh, it continues.

"But as long as humans continue to abuse power, this is what they will create instead:"

🍂 P – Predatory

🍂 O – Oppressive

🍂 W – Wicked

🍂 E – Egotistical

🍂 R – Ruthless

Then, silence.

I stand there, speechless, full of wonder.

The next day at work, I decided to use my power. The little tree's voice still rang in my ears, reminding me of my responsibility.

So now, whenever someone comes looking for their lost gloves at the Lost & Found, and I cannot find their item, I offer them something different—a small act of kindness.

I tell them: "If I can't find your lost item, you are welcome to choose one that someone else has lost." At first, they are surprised. Then, their eyes soften with appreciation.

But I do not stop there. I add one simple request: "In exchange for this item, will you do one kind thing for a stranger?"

Every single time, their face lights up.

Every single time, they smile.

Every single time, they say yes.

And in that moment, power shifts. It is no longer about control, greed, or dominance. It becomes something deeper—the power of the human heart.

One small act creates a ripple. A single moment of kindness sparks another. And just like the trees, our roots of compassion grow beneath the surface, connecting us all.

Kindness is natural to us. It is in our hearts and souls. The only question is—how often do we choose to exercise it?