Independence

One of the scriptures that JtM used in the retreat booklet was from Psalm 1:

They are like trees planted by streams of water,which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither.In all that they do, they prosper.

It made me wonder if we draw strength from the trees which are planted close to us. As I read it, I wondered if our society places such a high priority on Independence if we ever lean on the trees which stand close to us.

Is independence a barrier to the grace of God? Do we desire so much to stand separate and strong that we fail to accept grace from those around us? Do we miss God because we won't see his strength in those around us?