Wind-swept Trees: A Deeper Look at Stress Management

This is from a larger casual written conversation with a friend.
Two members of her family were experiencing a short-term medical crisis. It seemed like they were expecting a lot, perhaps not realizing how stressful these demands were on top of her full life. My friend found these words helpful. Hopefully it will be of use to others who have sometimes found themselves in difficult communication or behavior patterns with employees or volunteers.

When driving along the Oregon coast it is common to see trees that appear misshapen. It is easy to conclude these wind-swept trees are defective since they did not grow to perfection. A deeper look allows us to appreciate their beauty, distinctive and rare. These trees tell a story. But who listens? People who have difficult personality traits also have a story. A lot can be learned about a person's life by their personality. These folks are part of a diverse creation. Looking through a clearer lens, marvel at their ability to adapt and thrive in a harsh environment. They are worthy of respect. For they have overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Despite the tests of life they have held on and some have even flourished. People are a lot like those trees. They don't always look their best, and may sometimes be demanding or self absorbed. Extra care may be needed so they can make it through a crisis. In time they resume or develop a kind of grace that offers shelter to others. Our investment in them lives on.