September has arrived and the land begins to flourish with Spring. Can this be a reminder that there is hope, new life on the way, despite the terrible deprivation of continual lockdown waiting for the vaccination rate to reach acceptable levels?
I decided that I would take my focus to the land, the place where I am, though, It is so tempting to remain fixed on the screen, whether the TV or the computer. I am barraged by statistics whether they be the increase in infections, or worse, the increasing number of attempted youth suicides. I can retreat into a nether land of comedy or drama, seeking a way to escape the reality of life as it is. But, perhaps, the land and this emergence of spring can be a better alternative.
The lizard that lives in our back yard is a wonderful sign of new life, for he emerges and lays in the sun. A year or so ago, I ran over him with a lawnmower and almost killed him. It was a terrible shock, not only for him, but also for me. I did not see him nestled in the long grass. I covered him with leaves and waited, hoping that he would recover. It took him several days to move, and eventually crawled away to his hide away in the garden wall. Winter came and went, and I wondered would I see my friend again. Then, to my surprise and relief, he emerged, though has been more cautious about where he lays.
So, Spring is my opportunity to focus on the small changes in this place, the blossom emerging in the apricot tree, the soft breeze blowing up from the bay, the gentle sunlight caressing the land. In many respects, many people in our State, like myself, remain in the winter of discontent, and it may take more time to feel this emergence of Spring in our lives. Until then, I will be content with the land leading the way and immerse myself in these wonderful signs of new life to come.
Robert
