Cutting to Cultivate: A Mango Tree Lesson in Human Growth

This morning, we took a family trip to our uncle’s mango farm. The air was fresh with early drizzle, the leaves lush and green, and my kids were thrilled—they could touch the mangoes hanging low from the trees. Even Leo, our dog, was in his element, sprinting through the open space with unfiltered joy.

As we wandered through the orchard, I noticed that some trees had been cut down. Curious, I asked my uncle why. He explained that as the mango trees matured, they grew so large and close together that they began stifling each other’s growth. The larger trees, once productive, started blocking sunlight and space for the others. By selectively removing some of them, the entire farm began to flourish again—with more sunlight, air, and yield.

That insight landed deep. On our way back home, I couldn’t help but reflect on how this mirrors our own journey of growth.

Sometimes, what once made us successful—our strengths, habits, or roles—can become the very things that limit us. The tools that served us in one season may hinder us in the next. Just like those mango trees, our old victories can cast shadows on our future potential.

True growth requires the courage to prune. To examine which parts of us—be it a mindset, a pattern, or even a comfortable identity—are no longer serving our higher purpose. Letting go isn’t loss; it’s making space for renewal.

As you rise, ask yourself:

What strengths am I still relying on that no longer serve my future?

What needs to be pruned so that I can truly thrive?

Growth is not just about adding more. Sometimes, it begins with cutting back.