I have this big, beautiful Angel’s Trumpet tree in my backyard. Last week, my 6’3” father helped me trim it. Some of it was growing into the roof of my house and that part had to go. Even though it was healthy and good, it could cause damage to the roof. It had to go.
I watched as Dad cut perfectly healthy branches and leaves off, pulling them out from branches still attached, tossing them aside. Soon there was a giant pile of green on the ground. It hurt me to see it. Who likes to cut off healthy growth, even if it’s causing trouble?
Today, a week later, that Trumpet tree is thriving. For some reason this always surprises me — how cutting a plant back makes room for other things to happen.
That tree redirects its energy. Without having to grow tall, it can grow bushier, make fruit, make flowers, make big leaves. It can grow into places that are more receptive to its being there. Like in front of my studio window where it can be witnessed in all its glory.
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Don’t put yourself down. You are never hopeless…Your life is huge. God is with you. [Mooji]
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Friends Doing Cool Shit
Check out this Apple commercial that features my friend, Joey’s, song. Joey was in a band on my label, Lujo, back in the day. This song is called “How Many Times” by his band JJ & The Mood. Super good.
Another Lujo connection is doing cool shit in LA. Ryan Holladay and his parter, Julia, have created an outdoor music space in Highland Park called On Joy. This is the kind of project I love to see in the world.
And don’t sleep on my girl, Robin. Robin writes
. I’m always encouraged by what she writes. I bet you will be, too.+ + +
Thanks for being here.
& Ojai, see you tonight for Ojai Creatives, 6-8pm @ Buddy’s Wine in Ventura.
Jump + Pray,
Joce
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⫸ Snail Mail : 509 North Ventura Street, Ojai, CA, 93023
Aw, thanks for the love, friend! Trumpet's story really resonated with me. I am the worst about trimming my houseplants, even when I know they need trimming, because I feel so bad about cutting off healthy growth. But you're absolutely right. Trimming, even the healthy bits, is what creates room for new growth in even better directions.