Why I Chose the Name Willow Life

It started simply, really.  

I’ve been fascinated with willow trees for as long as I can remember. My earliest memory of a willow tree was playing house with a friend for hours under its canopy. The neighborhood bully, who tried to wreck into us when we were on our bikes or throw rocks at us as we passed by, didn’t know our willow tree secret.  We could see him coming from any direction, but if we stood still, he couldn’t see us. We were left in peace to live out our imaginary lives. 

To some, a willow tree represents sadness; but I’ve always seen safety. 

I tend to research everything I do. Picking a name for my business was no exception. Many resources suggested I use my own name. Marketing myself has always been uncomfortable for me. It’s not that I believe it’s wrong, and when I see other people doing it, it makes sense.  Yet, the moment I thought seriously about using my own name, I knew it would make me cringe every time I heard it.  It’s just not for me. 

When I was choosing a name, God was working with me (and still is) to focus on Him as my Audience of One and to trust Him to bring the right people and things into my life at the right time. So, I stopped researching and focused on praying about it (I know, such a novel idea, lol).  It was then that God prompted me to learn about willow trees and explore any Biblical references.

What I learned made it clear God was the One drawing me toward the name “Willow Life.”  Willows grow best next to creeks, rivers, and ponds. They thrive when their roots can easily reach the water. If they are planted too far from water, the roots will aggressively seek water and even break utility pipes, trying to tap into a water source. Willows are not weak or sad as their outward appearance may look, but instead, they are strong and aggressive in seeking out their source of life.

Isaiah 44: 3-4 “For I’ll pour water upon thirsty ground and streams on parched land. So will I pour my Spirit upon your offspring, and my blessing upon your descendants.  They’ll spring up as among the green grass, like willows by flowing streams.”

Psalms 1:3 “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”

The water in these verses represents the Spirit of God.  It is His Spirit that fills our deepest needs, brings restoration and healing, and allows us to thrive.

My deep desire is for my clients not just to be free of debilitating pain but to live a prosperous and deeply fulfilling life of purpose. 

John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

To heal and thrive, we all must live a “Willow Life.”

God knew I needed a constant reminder that everything I do that’s His purpose for me and fueled by His Spirit will prosper. He knows how easily I get distracted by fears, circumstances, insecurities, and impatience. He knows how quickly I end up running around uselessly trying to draw power from other sources.

So, when I see the name “Willow Life,” I’m reminded I need to be laser-focused on staying planted next to Him, my Audience of One, and aggressively seeking His power and life-giving Spirit to fuel my life. Maybe now, when you see a willow tree, you too will be reminded of your need to live a “Willow Life.”