Only when a tree has fallen can you take a measure of it. It is the same with a man

Only when a tree has fallen can you take a measure of it. It is the same with a man

Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the accomplished author and aviator, once said, "Only when a tree has fallen can you take a measure of it. It is the same with a man." This profound statement speaks to the idea that true understanding and appreciation of a person's character and impact can only be fully realized after they have passed away.

In the case of Lindbergh herself, her life and legacy have been closely examined and celebrated since her death in 2001. As the wife of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh, she was often overshadowed by his achievements during their marriage. However, in the years following her passing, her own accomplishments as an author and advocate for environmental conservation have come to light.

Lindbergh's words about measuring a fallen tree can be applied to her own life in the sense that only after her passing have people truly come to understand the depth of her character and the impact she had on the world. Her writings, particularly her best-selling book "Gift from the Sea," have continued to inspire readers long after her death. Her commitment to environmental causes and her dedication to preserving the natural world have also been recognized and celebrated in the years since she passed away.

In addition to Lindbergh's own life, her words can also be applied to the broader concept of understanding and appreciating the lives of others. It is often only after someone has passed away that we are able to fully grasp the extent of their influence and the true measure of their character. This is why it is important to reflect on and honor the legacies of those who have come before us, as their lives can serve as valuable lessons and sources of inspiration for future generations.