MY TREE:

What is your tree? "What is it that calls you to stretch beyond what is comfortable into places that are uncomfortable, and to realize that you are more powerful and more magical than your mind could have believed? What is your tree?" – Julia Butterfly Hill

Honestly, I COULDN'T DO THIS ALONE! Julia Butterfly Hill lived for over 2 years in a 180-foot-tall, 600-year-old California Redwood tree named Luna in order to prevent loggers from cutting it down. She refused to let her feet touch the ground until the tree was permanently protected, an act that challenged her to her core. Since descending from Luna, Julia has inspired thousands into action by being in dialogue around the simple question: what is your tree? Keep this question near, and use it to keep our actions honest:Do I use my time, energy, resources for what matters most to me in the world? And am I really engaged in my work in a way that challenges me to stretch, and forces me to find ideas, tools and relationships – and strength – previously undiscovered?

For the most part, I get to answer yes. My tree is Love. It’s a commitment to equity and a belief that some things – including basic needs like water, the ability to live freely and reach our full potential – are a human right, not a privilege.

I can only HOPE & PRAY that my work through VAL'S PORCH isn’t just work; but I TRUST that it is rooted in my deepest commitments because I didn't create it-- it was GIVEN to me, A GIFT from GOD to set others and me at PEACE. Today, what are you using your voice for? What is your tree?