The idea of going out on a limb was never before so clear as when I saw these Palm trees growing on the lawn of a home in Honolulu.

Wow! What courage these trees portray! Can you imagine the strength it took for them to first grow parallel to the ground before deciding to turn up toward the sky?

Most palm trees start out reaching for the sun. I wonder what made these two trees grow differently (the tree in the middle is also supported because it too grew horizontally).

Yes, I anthropomorphize, but I feel a kinship to these trees and a deep sense of appreciation for the homeowners who took it upon themselves to lend support to these beauties.

There are times in all of our lives when we feel the need for support. Sometimes that means financial support, but more often than not what we crave is emotional support. We want to know our efforts are worthwhile; our lives are meaningful.

Here is a close-up of the supports for the palm tree on the left.

When we need support, it is important to ask for it, and to be clear as to what kind of support we seek.

When we see others in need of support, let's first be honest with ourselves to be certain we can be of support, and then, when we can, lend a hand to those in need. We will all benefit.