Wiggly Cross And Up
In the heart of a vast wilderness, two weary friends journeyed together. As the sun dipped below the horizon, they stumbled upon an extraordinary sight—a brilliant light emanating from a towering figure whose shadow stretched into the clouds.
Intrigued, they ventured closer, hearing voices of joy and laughter from above. Shielding their eyes from the light's intensity, they pressed forward. When they opened their eyes, they stood before an enormous, kneeling figure, perfect in form. From its back, a tree of tangled vines ascended into the clouds, its branches reaching for the heavens. Realising their path forward required climbing this tree, they began their ascent despite the twisted and mangled branches.
Words etched into the bark, such as "No one knows the answer to the question" and "Give up," sought to discourage them. Yet, they pressed on, determined to discover the tree's secrets. Their climb brought them to nests offering momentary respite and a branch transformed into a dance floor where vibrant music and dancing figures celebrated through the night. Initially believing they had found heaven, they joined in the revelry.
However, a sense of unease crept in. This couldn't be the end of their journey. Realising there was more to explore, they left the merriment behind and continued their climb, the path becoming increasingly arduous. One friend, pondering their climb's purpose, asked, "What should I ask? What should I become?" In response, a profound revelation emerged from the whispering wind: "You must become an eternal wave, forever crashing on the shores below."
This answer spoke of a journey without end, an existence of perpetual motion and impact. They understood their climb was not just about reaching the top but about the endless pursuit of growth, learning, and becoming. With renewed determination, they embraced their eternal quest, understanding their journey was like a wave—a continuous cycle of rising, crashing, and rising again.
As they neared the pinnacle, exhaustion threatened to overcome them. Just when they thought they could climb no further, they reached a clearing where the vines parted, revealing a breathtaking sight. The tree they climbed was a magnificent cross, formed by the interwoven branches of the towering tree. Its silhouette against the sky radiated a sacred aura, and a profound sense of reverence washed over them.
In that moment, they understood the true significance of their journey. The tree, with its tangled vines and daunting challenges, was not just a physical obstacle but a symbol of the divine path they had embarked upon. With awe in their hearts, they climbed the cross, each step imbued with solemnity. A gentle breeze whispered through the branches, carrying a message of hope and redemption.
In the dappled light filtering through the leaves, the etchings on the bark appeared anew. No longer messages of doubt and discouragement, they were revelations of faith and resilience, guiding them ever closer to their ultimate destination. As they gazed upon the cross, bathed in the soft glow of twilight, they realised their journey was not just about reaching the top. It was about finding redemption, salvation, and eternal life.
In that sacred moment, the friends knew they had discovered the true meaning of their climb—to ascend to eternity, guided by the light of faith and the promise of grace. As they descended from the heights, their hearts were filled with newfound purpose, ready to continue their journey with unwavering resolve.
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Jonathan Paterson
Dream 10/10/23