Tree of Hope, Heart of Love

Finding Light in the Darkness

On Monday, I attended the Public Affairs Lecture Series (PALS) for the first time. PALS is a fantastic program that keeps the mind active and engaged, which I find incredibly valuable, especially as I strive to sharpen my cognitive abilities. The Morris Museum hosts the PALS lecture series, which features impressive “canstruction” exhibits constructed entirely from cans. While all the exhibits were remarkable, one particularly captured my attention – “Tree of Hope, Heart of Love” by Solutions Architecture. This creation showcased incredible design and construction skills and offered a deeper insight into the designers’ and builders’ dreams and aspirations.

The tree’s roots remind us of our shared foundation, a universal symbol of life, stability, and enduring connection to the earth. The heart, an emblem of compassion and kindness, signifies the core message of love – unconditional and all-encompassing.

This creation is a testament to our commitment to fostering a world where peace, unity, and love prevail. We are excited to share this symbol of hope and unity with everyone, and we hope it inspires all who see it to embrace these values in their own.

Throughout my life, I have consistently maintained an unwavering sense of optimism, even amidst the most challenging circumstances. I am steadfast in my belief that joining forces can shape a world characterized by peace, unity, and love. My life’s purpose is rooted in endeavors to rectify a fractured society. While some may perceive me as romantic, I am a pragmatist who recognizes love’s formidable and enchanting force and perceives love as the key to deliverance and a pathway to inner renewal.

After reading today’s issue of The Marginalian on the memory of James Baldwin, who passed away on December 1, 1987, editor Maria Popova shared a poignant quote from “Nothing Personal,” a collaboration between Baldwin and his high school classmate and lifelong friend, photographer Richard Avedon. This quote has been a source of comfort for me, especially during my darkest nights. The quote resonates with me every time I hear it.

One discovers the light in darkness, that is what darkness is for; but everything in our lives depends on how we bear the light. While in darkness, it is necessary to know that there is a light somewhere, to know that in oneself, waiting to be found, there is a light.

I can see the light even in the darkest hours of the night. It flickers on and off until we pull ourselves up and walk into the whole light of the day. We can see and embrace the “Tree of Hope, Heart of Love” with shadows still long from the morning light. I’m an ordinary man seeking to live life fully after loss. Grief has taught me the most critical lessons of my life. I have learned to serve and bless the living. One of the other important lessons I have learned is that I can love again. Will I be loved again in the days and nights I have left? Although I would prefer that, it may not matter, as knowing I can love gives me the strength to live fully after loss.