As the calendar turns, many of us feel a push to “start fresh.” But nature reminds us that growth is rarely sudden. Trees do not sprout overnight, and seeds need time to root before they bloom. There is wisdom in this quiet patience.

A few weeks back, I wrote a post about how deep and lasting friendships are very much like beautiful evergreen trees in winter: They are both steady, resilient, and withstand the wear and tear of turmoil and time. After reading the post, a good friend and fellow nature afficionado pointed out to me that we have “other” steadfast friends...