Roots of Renewal: Planting an Avocado Tree and Embracing My Growth Journey

107. Plant a Tree ✅

Roots of Renewal: Planting an Avocado Tree and Embracing My Growth Journey

On June 5th, 2024, I fulfilled a bucket list goal that had been quietly waiting in the back of my mind for years—I planted a tree. But not just any tree, an avocado tree, nestled on my parents’ homestead land, far from the noise and distractions of everyday life. This act, as simple as it may seem, was profoundly symbolic for me. It marked the beginning of a new chapter, one where I’ve started to truly embrace the idea that growth, both in nature and in life, happens at its own pace.

The Avocado Tree: A Symbol of Patience and Persistence

There’s something uniquely inspiring about planting a tree. It’s a declaration of hope, a belief in the future, and an acceptance of the passage of time. The avocado tree, with its promise of lush green leaves and nourishing fruit, became more than just a tree; it became a metaphor for my own journey. Just as this tree will take years to bear fruit, I too am on a path of growth that doesn’t conform to anyone’s timeline but my own.

As I dug into the earth, feeling the cool soil between my fingers, I realized that this moment wasn’t just about fulfilling a goal—it was about planting the seeds of change in my own life. The avocado tree, standing there in the middle of nowhere, represents the patience and persistence I need to cultivate within myself.

Growing at My Own Pace

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. We’re constantly bombarded with images of people who seem to have it all figured out, who appear to be miles ahead in life’s race. But just as the avocado tree will grow and flourish in its own time, I’ve come to understand that my journey is mine alone.

I’m learning to be kinder to myself, to acknowledge that my pace is the right pace for me. The only person I’m in competition with is the person I was yesterday. This mindset shift has been transformative, allowing me to focus on my personal growth without the burden of comparison. Like the avocado tree, I am rooted in my own potential, and I will bloom when the time is right.

A New Beginning

Planting this avocado tree was more than just a bucket list achievement; it was the beginning of a new mindset. From here on out, as I watch the tree grow over the years, I’ll be reminded of the importance of patience, self-compassion, and perseverance. Just as the tree will weather the elements and grow stronger with time, so will I.

This experience has taught me that growth isn’t always visible or immediate, but that doesn’t mean it’s not happening. It’s okay to take things one step at a time, to nurture our dreams and goals with care, and to believe that, eventually, we will bear fruit.

The Joy of Planting: A Moment to Remember

The process of planting the baby avocado tree was unexpectedly fun and fulfilling. From choosing the perfect spot on the homestead to carefully digging the hole, every step felt like a meaningful connection to the earth. I gently placed the young stem into the ground, covering its tender roots with soil, and gave it its first drink of water. It was a simple yet profound act, a reminder of the joy found in nurturing life. As I stood back and admired the newly planted tree, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that this small, joyous moment was the start of something beautiful—both for the tree and for myself.

---

In the quiet moments, when I think back to June 5th, 2024, I’ll remember the day I planted a tree—and the day I decided to fully embrace my own journey of growth, at my own pace, in my own time.

By sharing this experience, I hope to inspire others to plant their own seeds of change, whether it’s in the form of a tree or a personal goal. Remember, growth is not a race, and the most important competition is with yourself. Embrace your journey, nurture your dreams, and trust that, just like the avocado tree, you too will thrive.