That tree.

It was only half the size it is now when we first bought the house. It was stunted, crowded by a Mulberry tree that stood over its shoulder, each competing for light and water. For 23 years, the tree grew by inches—not feet—and never produced a single pine cone. Never. Really, I thought it couldn’t.

But, about three years ago, the crowding Mulberry tree was showing signs of rot and had to be taken down.

The pine tree flourished in its absence, It grew quickly… growing feet, not inches.

And then, two years ago, three pine cones appeared on its branches. Twenty-one years, nothing. Then three. Now, this year, so many that I can’t count them all.

So often, I ask myself what I need to add to my life to achieve my goals, to grow in the direction God has planned for me.

But, when I look at this tree, I instead ask myself, “What do I need to take out of my life so that I can be more fruitful and grow?”

More light. More time to hear His voice. More time. They all require space.

So, my question now is “What needs to go so these things can come into my life.”

That tree.