I’m not sure if you’ve heard the story of the Chinese Bamboo Tree before, but it’s one of those stories that is very instructive. I was astounded when I first heard this amazing story! This is how Chinese bamboo grows.
Unlike most other plants, Chinese bamboo is quite unique on its own. Even after being planted, watered, and nurtured for the entire growing season, this bamboo does not grow even an inch. The farmer must then continue to irrigate, fertilise, and care for the bamboo tree on the next growing season, but nothing happens – it fails to sprout just the same.
And as the seasons change, the farmer must continue to care for the bamboo for four consecutive years. What could really be discouraging is the farmer has nothing substantial to demonstrate for all of his efforts in caring for and growing the tree. Four lonely years of hard work and caring and yet you have nothing!
After five years of fertilizing and watering, the Chinese bamboo tree sprouts and grows 80 feet tall in just six weeks! But think for a moment, does the Chinese Bamboo tree really grow 80 feet in six weeks? Did the Chinese Bamboo tree lie dormant for four years only to grow exponentially in the fifth? Or, was the little tree growing underground, developing a root system strong enough to support its potential for outward growth in the fifth year and beyond?
I believe the answer is quite obvious to us. The tiny tree was actually growing underground by expanding its root system in order to be tough enough to withstand its impending external growth in the fifth year and beyond. If the tree fails to establish a strong and capable underground foundation, it will be unable to continue growing when the time comes to sprout outside into the outside world.
The same principle is true in real life. As long as we Keep trying and don’t quit; as long as we keep watering and fertilizing our dreams, just like the Chinese Bamboo tree, and one day it will manifest. It may take weeks, it may take months it may even take years, but eventually, the roots will take hold and your Chinese bamboo tree will grow. And when it does come alive, it will grow in remarkable ways. All of us have a Chinese Bamboo Tree within; that is waiting to break forth. So, have faith. Be patient. Be persistent. Continue to press forward.
May this short story on the Chinese Bamboo inspire you to develop the patience and hard work to succeed in life!
