Spring is Coming!
Every year, sometime in January, I start getting achy for the sun to return and for Spring to come. I think about what I want to do in the garden, long for warmth of the sun and grow wearisome of being cold and of sweaters. I have, over time, had to develop patience for the period between January and the actual Spring to come. This year seemed especially hard to hold out hope for the return of the warmth as the rain soaked every inch of our county. Don't get me wrong, I am greatful for the rain but was definitely longing for sun.
In Science of Mind, we have a very useful teaching metaphor about planting a seed and of all gardening as a matter of fact. Maybe you've heard it? It can go something like this. We are taught that our minds are the fertile soil for which thoughts are the seeds. We can plant what we want there and nurture it to grow. We talk about the importance of tending this garden and the practice of removing anything unwanted to make space for the seed we planted. It is actually the basis for our teaching symbol.
When working with our youth, I have repeated this metaphor- usually I like to help plant some actual seeds to go along with the project. Last year we got some wildflowers growing in a little planter box in my office window. The children took joy in spraying it with water each Sunday and watching the seeds emerge. We wondered which color flower would emerge. We even had a chance to discuss some of the seedlings that didn't make it. Not all ideas are meant to grow and must be given the conditions that it needs.
Over this last Winter I was so blessed to get to go with our Teens to Teen camp. In fact, when they got back they immediately set about planning how to get back to camp in the summer and to bring more friends along with them. A seed had been planted and they were nurturing it. I was in awe at their complete conviction and readiness to not only return but to bring others along. It wasn't the mid winter longing- it was just a knowing that it will happen. (You can contact me or click on the link for more information: https://csl.org/teencamp/camps/
It is that same energy I try to use with my own children as I guide them into being the best versions of themselves. I remember a time when I was absolutely certain that we would not have need for any screen time. I thought I would always have enough time to sit and read and that it would cultivate curious and creative children. For a long time that seed was blooming in our parenting garden. Life got busier and then at some point we came across a realization that one of our two kiddos struggles with written word and does much better with audio. In fact, absolutely loves audio books, documentaries and anything of the type. I had, in fact, grown a creative and curious child but it was time I had to plant a new seed regarding use of screens and electronics.
For a moment of contemplation. Take a moment to jot down or think on what seeds have been planted in your life? In your children lives? What kind of cultivation are you ready for?
It may be necessary to cultivate your garden, to uproot the weeds and straighten out the rows, planting new seeds – new ideas, broader visions and deeper realizations of life. New aspirations must be bedded here, fertilized with the fervor hope, the conviction of faith, the beauty of wholeness and quietness of peace. Watch your garden carefully, guarded patiently, waiting for a new harvest - for you shall reap what you have sown.
— Ernest Holmes, This Thing Called You Chapter V
The Garden is calling me- warmly yours,
Jennifer Caldwell
Youth and Family Coordinator
