Tree of Beginnings

September has always felt like a fresh start. The air shifts, school begins, routines re-form, and even nature seems to whisper: something new is growing.

But here’s the thing about beginnings: not all of them last. Some are here just for a season, like leaves that blaze with color before drifting to the ground. Others stay, rooted and steady, shaping us for much longer than we expect. But both matter and are part of the tree.

Today’s invitation is to create a Tree of Beginnings.

The Creative Practice

On your page, draw or paint a tree. It doesn’t have to be realistic! Keep it simple if you’d like: a trunk, a few branches, and plenty of space for leaves. (Or use this coloring page.)

Now, imagine this tree as all the beginnings in your life right now. As you draw leaves, imagine them all as the new things, the big or small, serious or silly. If you’d like, on each leaf, draw, paint, or write something that you’re starting this season (or hope to start!). Otherwise, just hold them in your heart.

As you look at your tree, remember that some leaves will fall away. They may have been important for a moment, but they’re not meant to stay. And some leaves will remain, steady and green. These are the beginnings that will continue to grow.

Let your tree hold both, the fleeting and the lasting.

Wondering Questions

• I wonder what new beginnings are stirring in you this season.

• I wonder which ones will last, and which ones may gently fall away?

• I wonder how it feels to notice that both are good, and both belong?

Kid-Friendly Version

Draw a giant tree full of leaves. Talk about all the things going on in your life, whether new or continuing, like school, sports, friendships, or even snack time!

Some leaves will fall off the tree later (and that’s okay!). Others will stay and grow bigger. Which ones do you think will stick around?

If you feel comfortable, I’d love to see what you create. When I share these prompts, I’ll always try to share what I’ve made too. Tag me on Instagram or comment below with a photo or reflection.