When breast cancer was confirmed after a biopsy, I immediately thought of a series of mandalas that I drew after I left Alaska. This was 20 years ago at a time when I obviously needed self nurturance.
The writing below image 1 suggests that I was feeling pretty vulnerable and needed to take better care of my emotions.
Image 2 was about getting closer to the ground and absorbing earth energy.
I am struck by the parallels and differences between then and now. Images 3 and 4 are ones I have reflected on often in the past 20 years, the ‘Me Tree’ (image 4) reflects the strength I feel when I connect to earth and acknowledge spirit.
                       
Now, 20 years later these 2 images are still so important to me, not because I need to work on patience or self love, but because they capture what I believe are my strengths.  Each step I take is deliberate and I have my family by my side. Breast cancer is not just my diagnosis.  I have learned in the past month that my family, and those who love me all carry part of this with me. That makes me feel so much less vulnerable than I was 20 years ago in a new state, not knowing anyone.  The Me Tree roots have established themselves well.
P,
I like the imagery of you as a tree. I can see so many parallels from the strength aspect, to the beauty, to the resourcefullness and giving of yourself for the benefit of others. Too, I’ve witnessed their power when the tree cracks the stone to gain purchase and life and I see you with the same will and power. I could go on, the imagery is so profuse and appropirate to you.
C of T