I’m in the library today. I was looking at my class schedule for next semester. Looks full and should be good for me. I’m recognizing that there is going to be a lot more studying taking place next semester.

While taking it all in, a friend saw me and came by to say “HI”. I took out my headphones and smiled while saying “HI” back. We talked for a bit; she was on her way to study for a test. We talked about the three S’s in school (Studies, Sleep, and Social). She said that you have a choice each semester of only two S's while the other suffers. I have some plans to help me keep focused and study hard so I have time on the weekend to relax and play hard.

Enough heavy - - after saying good bye and returning to the computer I noticed a picture on the far wall in front of my computer. It is a black and white shot of a dispersed forest. The trees in the photo remind me of some of the magnolia trees I saw in Virginia during the late fall and winter. There is a low fog that has settled about the trees. The beautifully twisted branches stretch out to reach the other trees. There also looks to be a tree in the center that still has leaves on it. It’s branches are also stretched out.

When I first started to describe the picture it was just because it was eye catching. Now it says more than just, “Hey look at me.” It tells a story about cold times (fall/winter). Times filled with uncertainty, confusion, or trial (the fog). Although bleak, the trees continue wanting and searching with their branches out stretched (without a loss of hope).

Then there is the tree in the center; its leaves are still intact. Its branches are also out stretched but I don’t feel it’s the same reason the others have in reaching out their limbs. The outer trees are looking to receive while the center tree is motivated to give.

We don’t always recognize the outstretched limbs in our lives; those we reach with and those outstretched by others. Are they there in need of aid or to give it? I guess we never know until we touch them. Keep reaching and maybe you can receive of another or give of yourself.

Even just a little bit will always help.