When we moved into our new home, we noticed a strange tree in the yard covered with glass bottles. At first, it seemed odd—even my kids asked if we could take them down—but I hesitated, especially after seeing similar trees around the neighborhood.
Curiosity led me to ask a neighbor, who explained they were “bottle trees,” a tradition meant to honor loved ones, ward off negativity, and serve as symbols of hope and remembrance. Suddenly, what once felt eerie became comforting.
Now, when the sun shines through the blue glass, I see history, love, and connection instead of just decoration. My children and I even imagine adding our own bottles, making it part of our family’s story. What began as confusion turned into a reminder that traditions we don’t understand at first can be the very things that make us feel at home.
