Exposed Roots

Photo by Felix Mittermeier on Unsplash

Looking through nature photos on Earth Day, this tree captured my attention with its dense root structure all exposed. It made me wonder…

Are the roots too shallow so the tree will topple with the next storm? Did these roots chase after temporary nourishment, the shallow sources of water that are immediate but soon run out or are never enough? Without satisfaction, the shallow stretching continues, always thirsting for more. Have these roots pushed over, under, and through what is in the way, in the drive to meet its needs?

Or

Have these roots run deep, finding water in the cavernous cistern that quenches the thirst of all deep roots? Are these deep roots that secure the living of the tree so it can withstand the pressures that come against it, the breaking or pruning of its branches, the strength to support those that come along to lean against it? Are these deep roots now exposed as the winds of time have eroded what is not necessary in the shallow soil that tempts temporary sustenance. Do these exposed roots reveal a steadfastness, a knotted journey of discovery to find the everlasting source of nourishment and vitality?

 Where do these roots go? I wonder.