Be the Seed

“A seed neither fears light nor darkness, but uses both to grow.”

Matshona Dhliwayo

When reflecting on the calendar year, early March finds us half-way thru the cool darkness of winter and the warm light of Summer. Days change from bright and sunny back to dark and dreary on a revolving cycle.

So too, our emotions. Our lives mirror this light/dark imagery. In a recent discussion with friends, we agreed there were days filled with peace followed by days full of unrest. The light and the dark.

How do we reconcile these life contradictions?

We can strive to be like the seed. Dormant underground initially, there is a quickening of life inside. Stormy clouds and rain prepare us for the beginning of the germination process. Sunshine beckons us to trust and spring forth, one small blade or leaf at a time. Patience and perseverance infuse the composted soil holding us, supporting us thru this transition.

Planting tiny seeds, I watch and wait for the first tip to break through the crust of soil. Each morning, I eagerly check their progress. Tender microgreens, germinating in 7-21 days, require full sun to partial shade. Some seeds require cold temperatures to mature. Buried deep in the dark earth, the chilly air surrounds the porous shell, activating the maturation. Other seeds require warmth, and they lie shallow under a light blanket of dirt. A gentle sprinkling of water provides moisture, preventing the seeds from drying out.

In the next few weeks, new life will explode around us! Various shades of green will emerge from the changing effects of light and dark. Periods of stretching and straining followed by calmness and ease hold us in balance. Finding the harmony between them is the key.

Embrace both for growth.