let go and let god

Many years ago there was a monk who needed olive oil, so he planted an olive tree sapling. After he finished planting it, he prayed, “Lord, my tree needs rain so its tender roots may drink and grow. Send gentle showers.” And the Lord sent gentle showers. Then the monk prayed, “Lord, my tree needs sun. Please send it sun.” And the sun shone, gilding the once-dripping clouds. “Now send frost, dear Lord, to strengthen its branches,” cried the monk. And soon the little tree was covered in sparkling frost, but by evening it had died. 

The monk then sought out a brother monk in his cell and told him of his strange experience. After hearing the story, the other monk said, “I also have planted a little tree. See how it is thriving! But I entrust my tree to its God. He who made it knows better than a man like me what it needs. I gave God no constraints or conditions, except to pray, ‘Lord, send what it needs—whether that be a storm or sunshine, wind, rain, or frost. You made it, and you know best what it needs.’ ”

Here’s the key lesson that we can all learn from this short story: Leave what’s important to you to God’s care. All your needs will be met as per the Divine Plan. No matter what your object of focus is right now — a work project, a startup, a dissertation, a merger, a fundraising initiative, or a newborn child — do your part, and then let Him take care of its nourishment. 

Detachment is crucial for growth. Just relax and trust the process. Or as the famous adage goes, let go and let God.