Our Gardens Tilled For Others

"Plant so your own heart will grow."

Hafiz 

Just as we carefully plant selected seeds into rich soil, our words need to be selected wisely as they will be capable of enriching others.  Our exchanges can be presented with sunshine,  awakening hope in others.  

It is important to remember that the seeds we plant grow not only within us, but are scattered  into the minds of others.  Our voice may be reflecting personal current or past lessons, while at the same time may be a stimulant to those who are bystanders.

As our thoughts blossom from seed to bud to blossoming color, they uplift us into higher states of being.  In addition, however, our fragrance of learning rides on the breeze attracting the attention of others.  We benefit from our planting, but it also makes a difference in those who surround us.

Lighting the Sky

"Even after all this time, the sun never says to the earth,

"You owe me."

Look what happens with a love like that,

It lights the whole sky. 

Hafiz

Teachers and mentors have impacted my life in very positive ways.  Early on I was desperate for direction and thankfully my earth angels were front and center.  Unfortunately, I was never able to appropriately extend my gratitude.

As time passed, I realized excruciatingly painful relationships were also teaching me.  I doubt I could look into the eyes of a negative interloper and spit out a 'thank you' at least in that time and space.  Perspective shifts with hindsight and with respect, I would want to at least acknowledge roles that had been played.

In present day, it is a blessing to extend a hug or be a listener.  It is a way of paying back kindness that had been so generously provided to me.  Life experiences carve us into a defining character and if we can appreciate who we have grown to be, we are most worthy of shining a light for others.