The winds shape the trees and they flourish and are made stronger. Their roots must grow deep so they can stand. As they grow they become thicker instead of taller. There is a beauty to the curves of the trees shaped by the wind. And in the spring the rhododendron's bloom and the bald is covered in pink.
We also face strong winds in our lives, but we grow sturdy only when we put our roots deep in God's word. And just like the rhododendron that withstand the wind and bloom in spring, God will use the strong winds we face to bring beauty to our lives. I am reminded of Paul's words to the Christians in Colossi about developing strong roots:
Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly; teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16
Here are a few more pictures I took at Craggy Gardens: