Pear

I loathe Bradford pear trees.

My kids and I went to visit my parents. A gusty storm blew through. The rain had stopped by the time we were ready to leave.

As I went out the front door, I couldn’t see our car. A massive cluster of branches completely swallowed it. The wind split the tree, and it swallowed our minivan.

I have never seen a pear on one that I would eat. They drop all kinds of garbage. At least twice a year, they exude the smell of death. The corpse odor is fitting for this leper of trees, with its appendages ready to fall off at any moment.

The trees are frequently used in newer neighborhoods because they grow quickly. In just a few years, they appear to be a fully grown tree. However, the rapid growth makes them weak, causing them to crack and split.

Sometimes, I need a Bradford pear. I need something done quickly, and it is ok if it doesn’t last very long. Other times, I need to plant an oak. I may not see it fully grown, but those who come after me will enjoy it. Most of the time, I need something in the middle.

Every choice I make requires a trade-off. I don’t always pay attention to what I am trading. If I am not careful, I will have a tree on my car.

Do I need something quick or something sturdy? Am I aware of what I am trading? Will I seek to plant trees even if I don’t get to enjoy them?

Be curious, be kind, be whole, do good things.