The Riven Tree by Robby Kautz
Robby Kautz published “The Riven Tree,” which is an allegory about trauma and how a young oak finds her way back to hope and happiness. The oak tree, after getting hit by lightning, feels ashamed of her altered appearance and worthless in the eyes of God due to her perceived “damage.” When the oak tree finally surrenders herself and talks to God, she finds peace and acceptance of her new appearance and is ready for the next stage in her life. Kautz, who experienced trauma by growing up in a violent home, developed this story to help readers heal from trauma, find their self-worth and foster a connection with God.
