A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words.

As a small child I was plagued with insecurities, I would clutch to the back of my mother’s leg with a white knuckle grip that could only signify complete and utter fear. However I was equally intellectual, always compelled by my surroundings and most of all life itself, what did it mean to be alive? I remember clearly a brisk fall morning walking in the park with my parents. As I strolled down an unbeaten path I peered off into the distance, I saw the most beautiful image my eyes has ever witnessed. One single oak tree protruding from the top of a hillside, towering with dominance and strength over all that lay below. I proceeded to climb to the top of the hillside, never stopping, not even once along the way. When I reached the foot of this massive tree I noticed hundreds of acorns strewn across the damp grass. Fumbling for a moment I remember reaching down and picking one up. Fascinated by it’s cold smooth texture I impulsively decided I was going to plant it and begin a new life, right in the middle of my backyard. My parents thinking it would never sprout played along quite willingly, providing me with a small spade and watering can they humored my every action. I nurtured that tree to life, starting as a small insecure sprout it grew a little greater each day. Similar to myself.

The same acorn that once rested in my tentative grip now resides towering above my home, representing everything that I stand for. Over the past few years I have grown by leaps and bounds. Understanding the meaning of true love and real sacrifice helped me gain the realization, that life is a free flowing and ever changing event. I now enjoy living a spirited life doing what I lust for the most. On any given day you will likely be able to spot me making joyous memories with my friends, or on the lacrosse field driving myself toward something grater. Possibly even taking a day to indulge in my academic studies. I hardly relish in how far I have come but I constantly dream of where I will go next. With my mind aggressively geared toward the future I dig my roots deeper and spread my canopy higher, everyday trying my best to keep up with the exponential growth I see my tree displaying. I may not achieve what I dream, but I will never give up on my philosophy's nor my intellect. Those will forever remain embedded deep within me, always guiding me in an honest direction.

My future is forever uncertain, formed around my encounters as well as my decisions. no course will remain etched in stone. I do not know where I will go, I can only hope I travel far. My deepest wish is to grow old surrounded by a forest of friends and family, never the sole tree on a hillside. Hopefully I continue to value all of the small things each day brings me. Regardless of health, stature and wealth remaining humble will forever be a virtue I insist upon. I associate the grouping of oak trees with the large healthy community I hope to contribute to. I envision the leaves representing the growth I have underwent in recent years as well as all the opportunities I will have to grow in the future. Any acorns that appear in this image would likely represent the opportunities I hope to provide for other people. Life is a conundrum looking forward as well as backwards, sometimes the best things make the least sense.