Go deep & understand your why because deep roots are not reached by the frost.

“All that is gold does not glitter;

not all those who wander are lost;

the old that is strong does not wither;

deep roots are not reached by the frost.”

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~ first stanza from the JRR Tolkien poem about the character Strider in “The Fellowship of the Ring“

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Just some thoughts to ponder: take a look at the first 3 lines.

I think what Tolkien is saying

is that just because something seems one way,

does not make it true.

For me, it’s the last line which holds a key: “deep roots are not reached by the frost“.

I feel it sums up the first three statements.

If we deeply understand the “why” we are doing something, that specific understanding can hold us safe from anything which would freeze us out, stop us, or derail our purpose. It’s part of having those roots that reach downward.

So.

Go deep.

Even if you don’t “glitter” you still have gold!

and

When you are going deep through age and strength, your contribution will flourish!

Do. Not. Quit.

Don’t stop what you’re doing even if others can’t see your glitter, or criticize your wandering, or if they question your age. Be strong.

And then your deep roots will hold you secure.

Are you finding it hard to keep going? Need some encouragement? Read this.

As you strive to go deep, remember, being optimistic is a strategy, and it can be learned. The benefits are great. One part of the strategy to be optimistic is to focus on thankfulness.

Quick! For what are you thankful right now? Find three things… they can be simple, or complex. Remembering your “why” you’re doing things can be prompted by your thankfulness. And thankfulness grows deep roots.

Do you keep a journal? Maybe add some “thankful” notations!

Writing or recording what you’re thankful for doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated.

Got a smart-phone? I use the app Gratitude 365. (It’s free.) Or you could just put three things into your calendar (online or paper).

Keep putting down those roots. Don’t quit.