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by la_quoi

by la_quoi

Meanwhile, on the ground, some people sat under the shade of the magnificent branches of this tree. They sat together, some resting on the strong and broad base of the tree and others sitting or lying cross-legged on their jackets or blankets.

They admired the tree and appreciated its beauty. Some had interesting and enlightening conversations with one another while others simply rested with their eyes closed in the cool breezy shade the branches provided. It was a safe space for them, an escape from the busy lives they had outside. It was the only place to get such fresh oxygen as there was not another tree for miles.

This group represents the people in your life you influence. People go in the 'shade' to escape rain, harsh sunshine (unfavorable conditions) or to relax. You may not believe you have anyone in your shade but there is always someone looking to learn from you, picking up habits from you and enjoying the fresh perspective only you provide.

We all have unique perspectives and values we provide to other people. Some people are unaware that they are in your shade just as you may be unaware that YOU are in someone's shade. It could be a coworker, a sibling, a friend, stranger, etc. It is important to protect your tree not just for your sake but the sake of those who are learning things from you or looking up to how strong you've built your tree.

The shade illustration is helpful because you can imagine that a scanty or thinning tree will not provide as much shade as a healthy leafy tree with all its branches intact. If you let the people in room A cut too much, or take too much away from you, you would be letting in rain or harmful light through to the people in your shade. Your tree may let in half-truths or compromised beliefs, as a result of being cut down by the people in room A, to the people you give shade which is what you have to be mindful of.

Balance between people in room A and B; and awareness of people in your shade are the key concepts I would like to emphasize on in this illustration with the tree.