August 20 – The Patience of the Huon Pine

Be still before YHWH and wait patiently; don’t fret about those who amass great fortunes and carry out their schemes unchallenged. (Psalm 37:7)

In the ancient forests of Tasmania, the Huon Pine stands as a testament to the power of patience. This remarkable conifer is among the slowest-growing trees in the world, with some estimated to be over 3,000 years old. The Huon Pine reminds us that in a world obsessed with speed and instant gratification, there is a deeper wisdom in embracing the slow, steady rhythm of growth. Just as the Huon Pine adds a mere millimetre of girth each year, our own spiritual growth is often imperceptible in the moment, but when we look back over the years, we can see how far we’ve come.

The Huon Pine invites us to cultivate the spiritual principle of patience. Our culture celebrates those who amass wealth and power quickly, yet the Psalmist reminds us to be still before the Divine and wait patiently, trusting that our lives are unfolding according to a larger plan. Like the Huon Pine, our task is simply to keep growing, ring by ring, day by day.

Reflection:

1. Where in my life am I being called to embrace patience and trust in the slow work of growth?

2. How can I cultivate stillness and resist the temptation to compare my journey with others?

Prayer:

Divine Presence, help me to trust in the unfolding of my life. Grant me the patience to grow slowly and the faith to believe that, like the Huon Pine, I am exactly where I need to be.