Springtime

Spring is here in Colorado, and with that has come the rain and the promises it holds. In the fungal world, we think morel, pheasant back, and oyster. In the spirit world (and its correlation to natural), we think of rebirth and renewal.

Considering rain, I am reminded that experiencing the forces of nature is not always the most comfortable experience, though being a creature of water is comforting. The rain and all of its liquid counterparts unassumingly proceed as the most powerful forces in the natural world, carving canyons, flooding cities, growing all life, covering over 70% of the earth’s surface.

The renewal of rain and springtime always brings with it a feeling of gratitude and wonder at what is possible when all the best conditions are met. “When life gives you morels, you best keep it simple.”

There is a mantra in the Tao “simplicity, patience, compassion”. The new season and the art of struggling with a new business reminds me (when I stop and notice) that these are of a much higher order than anything that happens within or without my business dealings. The community that we ultimately create is greater than any “concept” or “vision” of work we pursue. If our work builds towards loving community, we have done good work. If our work leads towards self-righteous individualism, we have tied our work in a knot.

My meditation and prayer for each of us this spring is that we will work towards connecting with ourselves, each other, the natural world, and the renewal of what was always there, occurring all at once.

“Simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures. Simple in actions and in thoughts, You return to the source of being. Patient with both friends and enemies, You accord with the way things are. Compassionate toward yourself, You reconcile all beings in the world.". ~ Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching.