The Tale of the Fern and Bamboo

Dear Friends,

In my years of offering private counseling and guiding immersive retreats here in Bali, I have often noticed that many people come to me at a pivotal moment—when they feel that they’ve tried everything and are standing on the edge of giving up. 

It’s a vulnerable and courageous space to be in, and it’s in these moments that true transformation often begins.

Since moving to Bali in 2018, surrounded by the lush, tropical jungle I’ve found myself deeply inspired by the quiet lessons that nature offers. So many types of plants, growing side by side, seem to mirror the journeys many of us are on. Some of us sprout quickly, while others take time to build unseen roots, only to emerge stronger and taller than we ever imagined.

As we head into a new season, I wanted to share with you a story that has always resonated with me—the tale of the fern and the bamboo. It’s a reminder that, much like the plants around us, our growth sometimes happens in ways we can’t immediately see. Whether you’re flourishing or feeling stuck, there is purpose and power in both the visible and the invisible growth happening within you.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or as if you’ve reached the end of your efforts, I invite you to read this tale and reflect on where you are in your journey. And remember, whether through a private session, an online program, or a retreat here in Bali, I’m here to support you in nurturing your own roots, wherever you are right now.

With warmth and care, 

Claudia Pi 

The Tale of the Fern and the Bamboo

One day, I decided to give up.

I quit my job, my relationship, and life itself.

I went into the forest to talk to an old man, who was said to be very wise.

“Can you give me a good reason not to give up?” I asked him.

“Look around,” he replied.

“Do you see the fern and the bamboo?”

“Yes,” I nodded.

“When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took good care of them. The fern quickly grew lush and covered the ground with its vibrant green. But nothing came from the bamboo seeds. Still, I didn’t give up on them. In the second year, the fern thrived and grew even more, but once again, nothing sprouted from the bamboo seeds. Yet, I didn’t give up. In the third year, there was still no sign of bamboo, but I didn’t give up. In the fourth year, nothing happened, but I didn’t give up. Finally, in the fifth year, a small shoot of bamboo peeked out of the earth. Compared to the fern, it was clearly tiny and insignificant. But in the sixth year, the bamboo grew over 20 meters tall.

You see, all this time, the bamboo’s roots had been growing, preparing to support its tall structure. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.

Did you know that all the time you’ve been struggling, you’ve actually been planting your own roots?

The bamboo has a different purpose from the fern, but both are necessary, and together they make the forest a beautiful place.

Don’t regret any day of your life: the good days bring you happiness, the bad ones bring you experience. Both are essential.

Happiness makes you sweet, challenges make you strong, sorrows make you human, falls keep you humble, and success makes you shine.

 If you don’t achieve what you aspire to, don’t lose hope. Perhaps you are just planting your roots.” 

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