conditions for growth

Two seeds from the same packet, sown into the same potting mix at the same time, planted into the soil on the same day when they were the same size. Two and a half months later... one plant is huge and the other has barely grown.

Perhaps it's the soil - there could be more healthy microorganisms in one area than the other. Perhaps it's the wind - the little one is in a more exposed spot where the big one is between rhubarb and a big patch of sorrel.

Whatever the reason, I've learned that the conditions make a difference.

As I've spent time at a modern monastery during my sabbatical, spending my days in the garden, praying and processing, with people and sharing in the daily work, I've felt myself grow stronger. The regular rhythms hold me while I am structureless, while the work and people nourish my soul.

I'm not flowering yet, but I'm not a puny plant anymore.