Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” We would benefit greatly if we only took the time to pay attention to the simple lessons a single tree has to offer. We can learn so much from the way it reacts, conforms and moves on. Almost every part of it can be related to our own human nature, and we can become greater when we allow the awe-inspiring elements of our world to guide us through this journey of life.

Here are five lessons you can learn from a tree:

1. Change is inevitable.

Each season brings with it mystical components. Spring and summer take us back outdoors, feeling hopeful and recharged. Fall turns us into children again with hot cocoa, marshmallows, and bonfires. Winter forces us to move inward reconnecting with our emotions. Every season has its own enchantment. We resist change. We live through cycles, ups and downs and the endless array of roller coaster rides. Make the most of them. Transformation is part of our existence. Mountains have stood gracefully for millions of years. Rivers flow regardless of rain or sunshine. Trees are resilient. They sway with the wind, bend with storms, and continue to flourish in their environment.

“The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. Do it. Throw yourself.” ~ C. JoyBell C.

2. Even the strongest tree eventually falls.

If a tree of hundreds of years can tumble over, roots and all, what makes you think you are invincible? Curiosity is the one thing impossible and invincible in nature. Our perception of strength and endurance sometimes is overly ridiculous. You are not a cement pole. You are deeply rooted in your beliefs and through the walk of your life. However, you do not have to remain steadfast. You can choose to say “no” when things get hard. You can ask for help when you need it. You are not here to prove anything to anyone but your soul. Vulnerability is not a weakness.

“This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. Take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the power to walk in the forest and be a part of nature. Take the power to control your own life. No one else can do it for you. Take the power to make your life happy.” ~ Susan Polis Schutz

3. Don’t ask permission to break down.

A tree doesn’t ask the other trees for space or time to fall. It just does it. When it’s time to let go just do it. It’s part of life. We have been conditioned to carefully wait for others to give us the okay to cry, get angry, or show any kind of emotional release. You are only responsible for your emotions. You cannot expect anyone else to understand your trials and tribulations. Don’t just breakdown. Have a breakthrough and return to your own happy garden.

“Don’t be ashamed to weep; ’tis right to grieve. Tears are only water, and flowers, trees, and fruit cannot grow without water. But there must be sunlight also. A wounded heart will heal in time, and when it does, the memory and love of our lost ones is sealed inside to comfort us.” ~ Brian Jacques

4. Everything is seasonal.

We all move through seasons just like nature but we are hard on ourselves. We don’t cut ourselves any slack. As we shed emotional baggage we do not allow ourselves recharge and renew. Listen to the wind. Close your eyes and allow the sound of nature to dictate your breath.

“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.”~ Henry David Thoreau

5. Everything has its own perfect timing.

Every leaf on a tree knows when to release. Each seed that falls into the ground has a connection with the earth to grow. There are no coincidences in life. You can call it divine intervention, synchronicity, serendipity, or destiny. There is something greater out there that moves us. The universe is always working in our favor. The environment knows the secrets of allowing and accepting. You are the creator of your life.

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn.” ~ John Muir

Most of us walk through life watching out for everything that is ahead of us. We don’t take the time to enjoy what is right in front with each passing step. Life is all about the small wonders. Add them to your intentions and you have a recipe for contentment. Be like a tree: constantly swaying and moving with the seasons. Allow nature to provide you with the simple gifts of living.