Nature never ceases to surprise us! It is full of mystery, wisdom, and wondrous insights for those who reflect. There is so much to learn from a seemingly old mango tree.

In the summer time, when the weather is not so fine and the sweltering heat gets too much to bear, we are reminded that “diamonds are made under pressure, fire refines gold ” and mangoes, of course, are produced under the scorching, hot sun.

The roots of the mango tree enable it to survive by absorbing the necessary nutrients and water from the soil. This in turn, makes us realize the importance of discovering our own roots as, if we do not know where we are coming from, then we most likely would not know where we are going.

Every tree and every single fruit for that matter – is unique and beautiful in its own way. This inspires us to embrace our own so-called imperfections, to be content with our natural beauty, to celebrate our diversity and differences, and to simply strive to be the best version that we can, of ourselves.

The mango undergoes a complex ripening process during which it turns all its sourness to sweetness. Why then, can we not achieve self-actualization and our true human potential? Why then, do we lose hope when we are engulfed in darkness and despair?

The mango season comes and goes in the blink of an eye, which brings with it the terrifying realization of our own mortality and the transience of life. The lesson learnt here is that with this little amount of time that has been given to us, we must do a lot of good. We can start, I suppose, by “turning over a new leaf” today to ensure a better tomorrow.