The Impulse Purchase
I have always wanted a Japanese Bloodgood Maple and on one of my “shopping” trips with CeCe, I saw this one and bought it. It has been sitting in our yard unplanted for about two months. This weekend, I decided CeCe and our lawn service were not going to make this happen, so I decided I would. I bet this will take me less than 20 minutes.
The Digging Disaster
Well, two hours later, I was just starting the cleanup. My first error was not having it right where CeCe said to put it. My second error was hitting the drainage pipe for our gutter system. Of course, I overlooked the need to haul some of the dirt out of the yard, and I needed to put some good soil in with the new tree. CeCe came out at one point but turned around and went back inside after just a few words of encouragement. “You’re going to clean this mess up!” It was a mess. Next came the clean-up, as I had mud everywhere on CeCe’s green grass and all over the driveway, where I hauled the dirt to the back.
Nostalgic Yard Work Memories
Now I remember why I hate landscape work so much. Truthfully, I like working in the yard some — spontaneously and infrequently. Growing up, Mom and Pop Joe made sure that Mike and I kept the yard mowed and in tip-top shape. My first job as a teenager was mowing lawns in the neighborhood. I also worked for a landscape company during my senior year of high school and in college to help pay my way. Working in the yard was a job for me from age 12 forward, so it’s no longer my favorite hobby.
The Finished Product and Reflections
Back to the tree. The picture is the view I had of it this morning, and it quickly swept away that bad memory of my hot, sweaty, back-strained two hours. There is something magnetic to planting a tree that simply brings about a sense of peace and a feeling of making things better. I know when our hunting camp spends the weekend planting 30 to 60 trees, it is one of the most satisfying workdays.
It is that connection to making something better as you add beauty to your surroundings for others to enjoy. As part of God’s creation, I believe we are each born with an innate desire to serve others and to be part of something bigger than ourselves.
Are you ready to get your hands dirty? Trust me, there’s nothing like planting a tree to create lasting memories and add beauty to your surroundings! It’s so rewarding, and you can see the benefits for years to come. It’s the same when we help a team member, a family member, or a friend with encouragement, support, or wisdom. We are planting something that will benefit others, and we can see the benefits for years to come.
The Rest of the Story
Me: CeCe, does the tree look okay right here?
CeCe: I’m not sure. I think you have it too close to the house…
Finding purpose begins with finding significance, which begins with valuing people. I am better because of this book, I’m confident you will be too! Mark Cole, CEO Maxwell Leadership
Grab your copy of Leading with Significance to find more magnetic insights to help you on your unique journey.
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