A Wise Father’s Lesson: Don’t Judge Life by One Difficult Season

Happy Sabbath

A father, eager to teach his four sons a valuable lesson, sent them on a quest to observe a distant pear tree, each during a different season.

The first son, who visited in winter, described the tree as ugly, bent, and twisted. The second son, who saw it in spring, disagreed, noting its promise and green buds. The third son, visiting in summer, marveled at its beautiful blossoms and sweet fragrance. The youngest son, who saw the tree in fall, described it as ripe, drooping with fruit, and full of life.

The father then gathered his sons, explaining that each had seen only one season of the tree’s life. “You cannot judge a tree, or a person,” he said, “by only one season. The essence of who they are can only be measured when all seasons are up.”

The father’s wisdom extends beyond the tree:

“Don’t give up during winter, or you’ll miss the promise of spring, the beauty of summer, and the fulfillment of fall. Don’t let one difficult season destroy the joy of all the rest.”

May we remember:

Happiness keeps us sweet
Trials keep us strong
Sorrows keep us human
Feelings keep us humble
Success keeps us growing

But only God keeps us going.

Take care, be compassionate, and thankful for all you have, through every season of life.