Oak: releasing our accumulations for new beginnings

The oak includes up to 500 species and is part of the beech family of trees. These trees grow to be quite large, some up to 130 feet tall and 120 feet across. Oak trees are hardy, able to tolerate high winds, sandy soil, and salty air.

They can live up to 1,000 years and produce an acorn, a nut that provides nutrients for wildlife. The oak accumulates many leaves throughout its lifetime, usually with lobed edges, and many turn bright colors in the autumn.

Just as the oak accumulates leaves, much of our mind is an accumulation of all the experiences, thoughts, and emotions we have encountered throughout our lifetime. These accumulations are just tools to use in life, not to be identified with who we truly are. Our true being is above and beyond these accumulations.

Knowing this, we rise above, being a witness, experiencing freedom within. As each experience passes and adds to the accumulation, just witnessing and enjoying each moment is the heart of mindfulness practice.

Like a mature oak tree losing its leaves. When it was very young, it grew minimal leaves, as its branches and shoots were fewer. As it seasoned throughout the years, the branches grew and multiplied, creating many, many leaves. Much accumulation indeed!

Yet every year it sheds all its leaves and becomes empty and pure, embracing new beginnings. Just as an oak tree discards its leaves, when we shed our accumulations, we become this magnificent oak tree: rising above, open and free in the sun and rain, witnessing and experiencing the bliss of each and every new moment.

Cheers!

Kether

Spunky Mind

"The more we let go of our attachments,

the more we become free

to live in the present moment."

Daigu Ryokan