I was totally focused on harvesting the tomatoes, sorting through the crop, deciding which vegetation to remove. It was stifling hot. The air was so thick that I felt as if I was moving in a dense liquid. Suddenly, the heavy silence was interrupted by the voice of my fellow gardener. “Look up!” Thinking I could ignore the directive, I lowered my head closer to the earth. “Look up!” came the persistent call. Obeying the command, despite my desire to quickly finish my task so I could escape the heat, I looked up and there above my head was the most glorious sunflower I had ever seen.
In the Farmer’s Almanac, there is a list of companion plants. As the title suggests, these are plants that should be placed next to each other in the garden because they are mutually beneficial. It makes sense that as gardeners we would seek to create a growing environment that promotes healthy soil and a bountiful harvest. So why don't we apply the same principles to the soil of our soul and the garden of friendship? Here are some examples:
Layer upon layer. Trial after trial. Our lives consist of a series of events folded in upon each other. A foundation is laid. Year after year, people, places, problems and pleasures are layered. Between what might seem like disjointed incidents, a vibrant life force blends the layers producing a beautiful, fertile landscape upon which we grow.
Once a month, the volunteer gardeners at Mercy Center will share lessons learned, both spiritual and practical. Look for these reflections on spirit and soil. Perhaps you might even consider joining us for a chat in the garden and a cup of tea. If interested, please contact Ann McGovern, RSM, at 203.245.0401, ext. 111.
