A Lesson From The Bamboo Tree

The Chinese Bamboo is one of the most talked-about Trees on the planet, the reason is not a surprise at all. This is not a function of its distinctive look and appearance, don’t get me wrong they are indeed a sight to behold.

However, the bamboo Tree holds a deeper significance than any other known plant in history.  Although it is grown like most plants; it’s nurturing process is much longer and requires more attention than most trees I know off.

While a maize seed would take a couple of days or weeks to grow; the Chinese Bamboo takes at least five years to grow.  Five years! Five years of nurturing, watering and weeding. That demands a lot of resilience and endurance.

You would think that well that’s nice and all, but that’s just similar to a typical tree, no big deal.  This tree can grow up to 100 feet tall, once it starts growing.  Not just that, the Chinese bamboo tree is regarded as one of the strongest and hardest materials in the world today. It is not uncommon to find them in building sites in Asia.

I went somewhere with a client the other day, and a lady asked me when my book would be published. I gave her a year; she didn’t seem impressed; I think I was not precise enough; “That’s in a couple of weeks” She said. In my response, I explained the month and year the book would be published.  

It was a brief moment; but the message is indelible, just like the Chinese Bamboo Tree, your visions and aspirations would always seem like a “Wild goose Chase”, a waste of time and energy, nothing short of a dream in the beginning. Dreams differ, goals and visions are not the same, some are achieved in a couple of days. Weeks or even months.

However, the dreams and aspirations that have a bigger and global impact take…years most times.  That is why they are usually faced with enormous obstacles to ensure that doesn’t become a reality.  You must understand that you are firstly responsible for realizing your vision.  It is your sole responsibility.

As such expecting inspiration from others may slow you down or even destroy your purpose and gift.  You won’t always hear people say “Hey Sharon go for it!” Or Go on Ben you’ve got this! Most times it’s going to be the opposite.  

Just in case you are wondering why all this is necessary, what is all the fuss about? I mean we have Tesla now; technology is at its peak with 5G network approaching, of what good will my ideas be with so much happening already in the world?

Victoria’s Secret was founded in the year 1977 by Roy and Gaye Raymond, they epitomized beauty at the very best. From women’s lingerie to all kinds of beauty products, a major force to reckon with globally.

But over the years a major problem surfaced, this brand had a flaw; the women had to be a certain size shape and physique to wear their product; meaning just been able to afford it wasn’t enough you had to look a certain way too.

That had a ripple effect on women across the globe, a lot of women suffered from low self-esteem resulting in mental health problems and all sorts of eating disorders.  It was not a pleasant sight.  A few years ago, Victoria’s secret was called-out for their lack of “inclusion” and the story didn’t end there.

Rihanna’s FENTY clothing came on board and made clothes for almost everybody.  Of course, it began as a joke! But her brand is now sold in a lot of countries in the world.  Other clothing lines have followed suit making clothes for all kinds of women especially plus- size.

Your vision, book, App or even software might be what someone somewhere could be waiting for. Don’t hide it for any reason under the sun.  No one else will do for the world what you are meant to do.  Take your place and the answer to the cry of many.  Fulfill your destiny, fulfill your purpose.  I believe in what you can become!