Wishtree

by Katherine Applegate

there is beauty in stillness and grace in acceptance.

you’re never too old to be surprised.

But sometimes things happen that aren’t so good. When they occur, I’ve learned that there’s not much you can do except stand tall and reach deep.

“The truth is,” I said, “it doesn’t matter what size you are, Bongo. We grow as we must grow, as our seeds decided long ago.”

It is a great gift indeed to love who you are.

I wondered, too, if I’d done enough for the world I loved. It was something I’d asked myself before. But impending death has a way of focusing your attention.

Maeve was solid and plain, but when she smiled, it was like sunshine peeking through clouds.

And everyone needs to hope, Red. Even Wise Old Trees.