“The body does not consist of one member but of many . . . If one member suffers, all suffer together. . . ” I Corinthians 12:14 and 26.

Nature affords us many lessons. And yet so often we ignore them.

I read an article about the aspen tree. The aspen has the distinction of being the most widespread tree in North America. Above ground the aspen will grow as an individual tree. But it is below ground that the miracle takes place. Each tree is interconnected with every other aspen in the forest by a common root system. In other words – all aspen trees are part of a living community. A single body. When one tree is sick, the grove rushes nutrients to the damaged area much like immune cells rush to the site of an infection in humans. The root system allows trees close to water to send nourishment to connected trees that may be suffering drought.

I like to think that this planetary orb that we share is one body and each person is a part thereof. And that all we all share a common “root system.” But do we rush nutrients to those who are damaged or suffering? We do but not always.

There is wisdom in nature. All the more reason to lend a helping hand to those that are struggling. And to accept that our small, individual lives have a connectedness with all of humanity.