Nature inspires new beginnings, transformations

Isn’t this time of year inspirational? The cold is fading, the buds are opening to the possibilities of new life, the soil welcomes the gentle rain and the transformation of nature begins. Actually, rather than a beginning, this transformation is a continuation of all the growth and unfolding that has taken place in other lifetimes. Perhaps, reawakening is an alternative way to view these changes that surround us. After a long rest, a deep drink of nourishment and a reconnection to the elements, growth and beauty abound. Perhaps we should be paying attention and taking our cues from the natural world a bit more.

I have been pondering the relationship of reflection to growth, transformation and choice. It seems that this is a natural consideration for the springtime. And, I suppose, the current state of our world — and our hearts — is the source of this reflection. Or at least part of it.

It seems to me that nature works from the core of love; love for the sunshine, for fertile soil, for nourishment and for the love of transformation from the sleepy time of rest and rejuvenation into the creation of beauty and new life. Nature does not act impulsively, it is not rash or sudden. Rather, it is inherent in each bulb and seed to connect with Source and then, with intention, to blossom. As I said, perhaps we should be paying more attention.

If we are to really change and really grow, if we are to really create a better world, we must first work from an energy and an intention of love for the highest good of all. What a huge challenge for our human condition! To act without the need to serve only ourselves, without the need to always win or to always be right, without the pretense of image or likeability. If the essence of our true desire is to live in a way that matters — as our spiritual leaders have called us — it seems that we would do well to “consider the lilies” as the quotation goes. To recognize that without reflection and deep contemplation, our actions can be reactions rather than responses and self-serving instead of all-serving. To focus on the doing without the focus on our being, is to fill in space, like the weeds, without creating real and lasting beauty, like the blossoms.

Oh, our reactions

can appear to be new thoughts, enlightened ideas and flowering concepts, but if we simply change for the sake of change, without deep consideration,

are we not simply following the “flavor of the month?” And, in doing so, rather than offering love and support, we might just be seeking control. Sometimes, in the wee hours, I think that control has become the new god of humanity.

Can we sit in stillness

and learn patience? Can we humbly let go of the need to control and pay attention to the signs around us? Signs of the need for compassion, understanding, thoughtful change and healing? I am not suggesting a lack of action or wafty promises of peace and love without

substance. I am suggesting that action, in order to be meaningful and focused, would benefit from a deeper sense self-reflection and a wider sense of community.

If we can commit to seeking to serve the highest good of all, if we can focus on the connections

between ourselves and the wider world, choices become natural. And the outcomes take on the splendor of the blossoms we witness all around us, the colors delighting the world, bringing beauty across the land and reawakening each spring in glorious ways that reflect

the Source of all. Happy spring!