It’s time to set yourself free!
I had the fortune to gaze upon this Great Blue Heron while walking around Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. Its traditional symbolism was timely: self-reflection, the ability to progress and evolve, self-determination, and Good Luck!
This is a summer like no other! We are not re-entering the world as the same person we were in February of 2019. We've all been changed by our experiences.
Change is in motion and, in many ways, we are experiencing a new world. We are reclaiming the freedom to move around and be up-close and personal with those we love. We are gathering together and exercising all of the freedoms that come with it, including re-kindling relationships, giving and receiving hugs and kisses, a return to the workplace, attending live events, travel, and for many, life after the loss of a loved one.
In re-entering into events and relationships, what about your relationship with yourself? What will you re-enter into, and what will you leave behind?
In our outer landscapes, we take time to weed things out and make room for new growth. We plant with intention. Inside of ourselves – within our inner garden, can we do the same?
While it's still early summer, let's take on a summer attitude of lightening up.
Within ourselves, what do we need to weed out? Let’s not hold on or try to contain things that have outgrown their purpose. Maybe it’s an attitude or an old, tired habit that doesn’t fit any longer. It’s like keeping an old pair of shorts around that are out of style or simply don’t fit.
What precious parts of who we are have been uncovered during this period? Can we tend them, nurture them, and allow them to bloom?
We’re coming through a long period of dormancy and could use some personal tending. We’ve been covered up by isolation and missing some vital nutrients found in the physical presence of loved ones, including hugs, shared laughter, and a strong shoulder to share our burdens and losses. Being intentional about what we plant, water, protect, and nurture will have lasting benefits.
Throughout this summer season, let’s pay attention to what we wish to harvest at summer’s end. With great care, let’s tend our personal garden for growth.
Happy Summer!
Lake of the Isles, Mpls, MN 2021
photo by Jo Ann Wenner