When Norm and I recently visited the St. Mihiel American Cemetery, I was struck by the warmth of the trees. They stood there, tall, so comfortable in their surroundings. So comfortable in their own skin. No fear. No doubt.

It seems incongruous that vibrant life could thrive so near to those who have crossed to the other side. Completely unperturbed by the idea of death.

But that is, indeed, the circle, isn’t it? Life is not a linear existence at all – it is circular, and when one light is extinguished, another is illuminated such that everything continues. Everything is right now. The trees know this.

Past and present have no meaning in the circle of life. All exists simultaneously.

It’s just a matter of what form one takes.