In literature, symbolism plays a crucial role in conveying deeper meanings and themes. Consider the following excerpt from a novel:
"The old oak tree stood tall and resilient, its branches reaching out like arms, offering shelter to all who sought refuge beneath it. Its leaves whispered tales of a thousand seasons, their colors changing with each passing year—a testament to time's unyielding march. The tree, gnarled and twisted, bore the scars of storms, yet it flourished, a beacon of hope amidst a world of uncertainty."
Which of the following options best captures what the oak tree symbolizes in this context?