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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: MARRIAGE (08/25/16)
Two tall gums grow side by side in common soil. They stand majestically together in our front yard. Each tree, once just a sapling, is now whole and individual. Each has grown according to its inner design, yet shaped by the other one at its side.

If the extensions of the trees, the roots and branches, grow too intertwined each tree would be unrecognizable as two unique individuals. Their own sense of identity, would become distorted, the boundary lines unclear. Their own being would become suffocated by the other and their giftedness, that offers beauty, contemplation and refreshment to others, would be choked by its partner. Each tree that was originally planted to compliment the other, would now be imploded by the other.

Alternatively, if the extensions of the gums grow too far apart, they would abandon their contractual oath to love, nurture and encourage one another through the changing seasons of life. Independence and individuality are welcomed, but not at the expense of mutual dependence and support. Loneliness, despair and bitterness creep in when the call to faithfulness towards the other is forfeited or forgotten.

As the pair grow older, they understand the wisdom of extending outwards beyond themselves to be inclusive of others. They are designed to embrace more than themselves. They become hospitable hosts to many, and those they each welcome may be different from the other. All in all, they are accepting of their differences and offer enough space and freedom to allow the significant other to grow outward into who they are made to be.

There is enough intertwining and sharing of each other that they continue to grow confident in trusting one another. They add value to the other, never competing for space or attention. They are complete and strong in themselves, yet shaped by one another to grace the world around them.

These gums towering together, are a metaphor for marriage. A metaphor for my marriage, planted thirty years ago and still growing strong.
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This article has been read 757 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Judy Sauer 
09/05/16
I enjoyed reading your metaphor for marriage. An interested take on the topic. Nice job.
Judy Sauer 
09/05/16
I enjoyed reading your metaphor for marriage. An interested take on the topic. Nice job.
Raymond Bouchoc
09/07/16
I liked the tree metaphor and easily pictured two trees growing next to each other spreading their branches into one another.
Pat Small
09/08/16
Interesting commentary. I liked how you showed that the trees are still individual trees and how some distance is needed.
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
09/09/16
Congratulations on ranking 7th in your level. Happy Dance.