To make a change, understand the bigger picture

branching pattern at a tree next to the Alamo

Let's say we felt a need to change the branching pattern in the this tree; say I wanted more light to shine on the patio by the Alamo.  With a tree, we take for granted that it's obvious that you can't bend the branches out of the way, that we have to cut them, and we can't always just change exactly the part of the pattern we want.  If we wanted an opening in the center of this picture, we'd get openings elsewhere too.  We must consider the whole structure of the tree on a large scale, and the composition of the tree on a small scale to know what kind of cutting instrument to use (not a blowtorch, not a melon spoon...).  With a tree, this is obvious, but when the pattern we are trying to change is our own mind, or a family, an organization, or a community, it is not so obvious.
   In order for to resolve or change a an emotional problem, a relationship issue, or an organizational challenge, there may need to be change in other seemingly unrelated parts part of the mind, habits, family, or organization.   To find these other points of intervention in your habits of communication,  thought, or other behavior, you may have to branch out from the problem you're focused on, as you seek to understand the larger patterns that may be holding the problem in place, as the trunk and cellulose and internal structure of the tree hold the branches and leaves in place.