Most pines grow straight in the forest. However, sometimes the earth below cannot hold its weight, such as trees near a river bed, and the ground is too saturated to lock its roots in tight. This is symbolic as we may fear falling amongst a crowd – it can feel too vulnerable to be true to our thoughts and feelings. By leaning into this discomfort of not merely following others to be our guide, we hold onto our integrity and allow ourselves to push through to our authentic selves.
Life is not all straight lines as the river flows and carves into the sides of the earth and creates a criss-cross path. Be genuine to yourself in the pathway you strive to follow.