It was one of those perfect summer afternoons—clear skies, a gentle breeze, and the scent of fresh grass in the air. We had spread out a picnic blanket in a quiet grove while the kids played nearby. Our daughter wandered a little farther than usual and stopped beside a tall tree. “Mom, Dad, come see! This tree has stripes—it’s so pretty!” she called.
When a Tree Reminded Me of Life’s Fragility
