The Courage to Reach Out

The oak, laurel, and olive trees each convey unique and significant messages, but only one has the power to heal an increasingly divided world.

When the hurricane winds tore through our county last year, the oak tree in my front yard, with its huge trunk and deep root system, took the storm in stride. Its strength is admired by soldiers, leaders, and everyday heroes, and its stability, pride, personal and national protection are used to honor parents, veterans, first responders, and others like them.

The laurel tree leaves have been used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but are best known for symbolizing victory and honor. Laurel wreaths crowned athletic champions, military generals, and accomplished writers, inspiring the phrase “don’t rest on your laurels,” warning those at the top of their profession not to rely on past successes but keep striving for higher and greater goals.

Often, we go through life believing we possess, or at least claim to possess, the strength and stability of the oak tree, along with the desire to win and achieve honor and wear the laurel crown. Until there is disagreement.

The olive branch extends beyond symbolism, reflecting a choice to bridge differences and seek understanding. Gandhi said, "Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it," reminding us to forgive, listen, and move forward. Embracing the olive branch means choosing connection over division.

Our struggle to “extend the olive branch” comes from pride, past wounds, or a fear of rejection that prevents us from initiating reconciliation and compromise. We view offering peace as a sign of surrender, when, in reality, it demonstrates great strength. In a time when texts and tweets are loud and tempers quick, the courage to seek common ground is more vital than ever. This courage empowers us to extend the olive branch.

At work, we can create an environment of constructive conversation to replace resentment and grudges. We can teach our children the value of reconciliation by modeling forgiveness and open dialogue at home. We can bring out the best in people with a competitive spirit that highlights sportsmanship goes beyond winning. And we can extend grace to others, even when it is undeserved.

When the dove returned carrying an olive leaf in the story of Noah’s Ark, it was proof that the floodwaters were receding. A better life was ahead, and peace with God was being restored. This imagery continues to represent hope for us today.

Extending the olive branch is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Choosing reconciliation over division leads to healing and growth. Today, take one step—reach out, listen, or forgive—and let the olive branch be more than just a symbol. Let it be a way of life.

Do you know somebody who would enjoy receiving these inspirational messages? Invite them to join my email list by signing up at www.bobbykocol.com/blog.