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DAVID BENTLEY'S WEEKLY COLUMN |
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ROOTS
Here in the Pacific Northwest we know that many of our trees do not have deep, well established root systems. When the ground gets saturated, it doesn’t take a lot of wind to knock a tree to the ground. When those 45-60 mph winds come blowing in, trees can start falling like dominoes. The tenacious ones survive and thrive. The others don’t. They fall, often taking other trees and even an occasional rooftop with them. As I write this column I’m packing to visit the land of my childhood and thinking about my own roots. As you read this column, my mother (the octogenarian) will be celebrating her birthday. I have managed to pull up my roots and replant myself a few thousand miles away, and I’ve adapted very well. In fact, I’m clear that I’m going to visit my mother’s home where she has firmly established roots. My home is now in the islands. Still there will be family and friends with whom to become reacquainted. There will be lots of vaguely familiar food to eat, despite the fact that my physician would not approve. I look forward to the fried catfish, hushpuppies, and pecan pie. I’m sure I’ll return a pound or two heavier and with an accent that will once again allow me to turn the word “no” into four syllables. Yet when I get off that plane at the Friday Harbor Airport, I will breathe a sigh of relief. For then I will have come back home and can reestablish the roots that help me survive even the fiercest storms in my life. To know where my roots belong, at least for now, and to establish them firmly, is a very good thing. Bring on the challenges. I’m ready!
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SAN JUAN ISLANDER © 2008 |
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