Lessons from trees, values from roots and change from leaves

Its roads twist, leading deeper in.

In the wrinkles of an elder's face, we see the nagori of a life fully lived

I'm struck by their differences. As I stand before two maple trees, my daily walk companions.

One, a mere sapling of three years, reaches towards the sky with youthful vigor. The other, a grand matriarch of over 30 years, spreads its branches wide, offering shade and wisdom.

These trees, in their different life stages, have taught me. They taught me the art of momijigari - the mindful observation of autumn leaves.