Dear Reader, As I enter the last quarter of my life, I find myself thinking deeply about the things that truly matter—the things I want to pass on to you. When I was your parents’ age, I was caught up in the busyness of life: building a career, raising a family, trying to do it all. I didn’t always take the time to slow down and share the simple but powerful lessons I’ve learned along the way. Now, I have more time to reflect. And when I do, my mind often returns to something that’s been with me since I was young—trees. Growing up, I loved being outdoors. And for decades, I ran nearly every day, often through wooded trails and quiet neighborhoods. On those runs, I’d take in the trees around me. Some were strong and grounded like the oak. Others, like the willow, bent with the wind but never broke. Over time, I started to wonder if each tree held a life lesson—something we could learn from and live by. So, I created this little book for you. It’s simple, but it comes from my heart. Each chapter shares a different tree and a lesson I believe can help you grow into the best version of yourself. I hope you’ll read it slowly. I hope you’ll reflect on it. And maybe one day, when you’re walking or running past a tree, you’ll smile and remember something Grandpa Joe once said. With love and wonder, Grandpa Joe