Stall Tall or Bow Down?

Imagine a tree. Its branches stand mighty, straight, and tall. Surely, you would look at such a tree and think, That is the best tree.

Now imagine you have a choice between this first tree and a second. The second tree has branches that bow and bend. But why? Because it bears juicy, nutritious fruit. Yes, it may sag and not appear as tall, but it is arguably far more valuable to a person.

When we think of the “best” people in the world, we often think of those who stand tall like the first tree. Those with money, fame, or accomplishments can seem greater than everyone else. Remember, though, money can disappear, fame can be forgotten, and accomplishments may amount to little more than the value of a simple trophy or medal. Often, these people, though impressive, rest all their merit on their laurels, yet there is no real fruit, no lasting impact or nourishment for their fellow human beings.

The people who are truly strong are those who, like the second tree, bear fruit. This is humility. To be a person who contributes to society, who gives to the community, who is generous to others—to be that kind of person, you must “bow down” like the fruit-bearing branch. A humble person does not need to stand tall above everyone else, because they understand that their work, however small or insignificant it may seem, has value as long as it bears fruit.

There is an apocryphal story told about Abraham Lincoln, a president who came from humble beginnings. The story goes that a wealthy aristocrat sought to belittle him and said, “Mr. Lincoln, you should not forget that your father used to make shoes for my family.” Lincoln replied that if his father made shoes for the man, he hoped they were good shoes, because his father always tried to do excellent work.

It is not about the height of your stature. It is about the value of your work. It is about humility. Lowering oneself to lift others up, whether by growing fruit or making shoes, will always be among the highest glories a person can reach.

Interested in teaching your child positive character traits like humility? Trinity Martial Arts in Hopewell Junction teaches traditional martial arts and practical self-defense skills to students in East Fishkill and the surrounding Hudson Valley. Reach out today to schedule your free trial class and begin your martial arts journey.