Walking Roots
- Guest Writer
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Max Collier (they/them)
Student, The Methodist Theological School in Ohio
Queer Theologian
I’m in my forties and didn’t come out as Queer until I was 35 and around age 39 was when I realized I was genderqueer and trans. I believe part of the reason I didn’t realize this at a younger age is because I did not have a supportive community or the language. A while ago I was in Costa Rica learning about some conservation efforts. While touring a forest, I learned about an endangered tree, a type of palm that is sometimes referred to as a walking tree. It needs a certain amount of sunlight to grow. Its roots will grow one way towards the sun and the roots away from the sun will die and break off. It literally walks to find an optimal growth spot. However, if the forest were cut down around it, it would not be able to survive. When it has found its optimal spot for growth, it can grow to be a very large and strong tree. I thought about this tree and my own journey. Once I found community to surround and support me, I was able to grow into my strong, authentic self. I’m not sure if you are feeling like the palm tree looking for optimal growth or you are the rest of the forest providing the love and support that other Queer folks need, but I want to encourage you wherever you are, that there are people and communities that want you and need you to survive and thrive.
Reflection
Where have you found places to grow and thrive? How can you provide that support for others?
As an ally, what are some ways you have provided support or would like to provide support for Queer and/or gender non-conforming folks so that they may thrive?
Action
Seek out your local community’s pride or Queer organizations that provide places for community or support. If there are none in your area here are a few resources that I have used and continue to use:
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