We are fully in the flow of 2010, and be it last week, or last year, many I speak with are still feeling the effects of storms in their lives. This winter has certainly been one for the record books, and memories are far from distant for those who have experienced life altering changes. We see vivid, haunting pictures of destruction in Concepcion', Chile, even as the memory of Haiti is fresh in our minds. We can't help but wonder, why must destruction occur on such a massive scale, in order for new growth to occur?
Driving along our mountainous road mentioned before in this column, we are reminded of one recent storm that left us without power for three days. Perhaps two dozen trees came down. Large, solid trees with what we believed were firm foundations. How many of us have felt ‘uprooted' recently as we walk this path of awakening? As I look at the trees, it reminds me that many must feel as they do....torn, raw, exposed, jutting jagged edges with open gaping wounds.
This cycle in nature is mirrored as we reach for the signs of spring after such harshness and adversity: robins bounding on the ground in search of wiggly food, daffodils pushing out from frozen ground, the change in how the air smells. Arriving none too soon after bitter winds, below normal temperatures and what looked like the punishing brutal nature of Nature. Except for those of you too far south or west to be touched by any of this!
When we look at what is happening around the world, these times force us to examine our priorities, to treasure what is truly precious, and let go of the rest. We develop an inner resolve and greater determination. We strengthen our will as we affirm our dreams and goals. We know what waits for us. We can feel these seeds planted before first frost just waiting to burst forth from the ground, into our lives. Our heart races, we feel like children on Christmas Eve as we await those first blooms, the crocus that laugh at snow and push ahead regardless of the obstacles. These mirrors speak to us.
And to those faced with the prospect of rebuilding their lives, their homes, their communities, I envision the image of the Phoenix, and new life rising up out of the destruction. The Phoenix is a symbol of Hope, and the promise that from devastation and death, the path is opened to rebirth. That is the message that nature teaches us, with the passing of winter and coming of spring, as new buds replace barren limbs, nurturing green is born from sterile white, and hope for new life is seeded in our consciousness.
Let us all support the energy of rebirth through our prayers and intentions, not just for ourselves, but for the global community and those in need of Hope.
Namaste',
Karon
