From the time the Joshua tree was a tiny sapling, it had been so beaten down by the whipping wind that, rather than trying to grow skyward, it had grown in the direction that the wind pushed it. It existed now in a permanent state of windblowness, leaning over so far that it seemed ready to topple, although, in fact, its roots held it firmly in place. pg. 35
The Joshua tree, even as a small sapling, faced relentless challenges from strong winds that shaped its growth. Instead of striving to rise tall, it adapted by leaning into the direction of the wind. Its growth was permanently affected, creating a unique and resilient form that defied the odds.
This tree's inclination symbolizes resilience amidst adversity. Although it appears precarious and on the verge of falling over, its strong roots anchor it firmly to the ground, illustrating that true strength often lies beneath the surface, allowing it to endure despite external pressures.