Invincible Summer

Albert Camus said, "In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer."

He went on to say "And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back."  And let me note right here that I agree with absolutely nothing else that he ever said or did!

My personal something stronger and better is God, pushing right against the cares of the world.  

This tree also has some invincible summer in its DNA. Somehow, when every other tree that I see has bare wintry arms reaching toward the sun, this cotton-candy charmer is blooming in splendor. Two weeks after a major snow storm. As I drove past, I did a u-turn and took a photograph.

This type of tree is planted all around Portsmouth; the white version down the median along London Boulevard and planted in numerous other yards in homes all around here. There will be another pink early bloomer in a bed and breakfast's yard; but not yet.  

Their glorious spring season reminds me of Jordan almonds or fluffy 1950's strapless prom dresses on giggling girls with "Dippity-Do" hairstyles and short white gloves.

Why is it that one tree above all others shows her splendor early on?   How do some people survive untold abuse as young people and thrive as adults while others hurt their fellow man?  Why do some folks bounce back from hard times better than before, but others turn bitter?

I don't know all the answers, but I do know that the ability to reach higher, to reach toward the sky and toward God makes the difference.  For this is a transitory world, rife with chaos especially now.  

The blossoms come and go, the leaves take their places, and then fall as well, leaving skeleton arms reaching to the sky.  Only God is eternal and ever present.