Lessons from the Old Oak

A clever student, proud of his book knowledge, boasted to his history professor: "I've

mastered everything a library can teach me." The professor, a quiet observer, smiled.

"But have you learned from that which is unwritten?" The student looked puzzled.

The professor led him to an ancient, gnarled oak tree in the courtyard. "What lessons does

this tree offer?" he asked. The student scoffed. "It's just an old tree." The professor

shook his head. "Look closer. Its twisted trunk tells of storms withstood,

resilience. Its deep roots, invisible, speak of perseverance. Its falling leaves,

about letting go; new buds, about renewal." He then pointed to a perfect young