Ring-ing in A New (Birth) Year
Shall I compare me to an aging tree? Why not! Trees grow…as do I. But since trees have so many characteristics and comparable qualities, I will focus on just one: they typically grow a ring for each year of their lives and thereby expand their girth (and strength). Scientists can actually determine the age of trees by the number of rings they have. And interestingly, an analysis of the rings can tell of the events that the trees had to experience – favourable or harsh climatic conditions (such as drought, rainfall), pollution, diseases, etc. Just like the trees, we all grow rings. We celebrate our “rings” when we celebrate our birthdays (or perhaps at the start of a New Year). And just like trees, the characteristics of our rings are influenced by external and internal factors – the joys, triumphs, struggles, fears, etc that we face. If we overcome life’s obstacles and live past our pain and pride, our rings will be stronger for the next one to come. All previous celebrations of th...