Gardens

It is nearly March. In March I usually start thinking about preparing for gardens. I don't have much space for gardening just now, but I still think about it. I look at the farmers fields along the road here and they have already begun tilling the soil for the coming crops. There are so many kinds of gardens. Vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, grain and corn fields, beet fields, flower gardens, and so many more. There are gardens of the mind,also. How do we till, and sow, those gardens of our minds? What do we fill our minds with? Do we read good books with contemplative thoughts of people through the ages? Do we watch TV? Do we read romance novels or other books about as deep as thin plastic wrap? Do we surf the web for hours? Are we taking time to sit and think? Are we aware of the beauty and peace of the mountains, valleys, rivers, and oceans nearby? Do we see the little flowers along the way? The beauty and shape of a fallen leaf? I love to see the sun rise, the light that glows on the mountains, the house next door, the golden light on my floor and walls. I love the glow of light through the plant leaves, and the uplift that comes each time I see it. I love looking out my windows to see the flowers I plant each year. I love deep red geraniums, set next to white alyssum. I also love deep purple pansies, and rich colored marigolds. I also love to see my tomato plants grow. We enjoy eating tomatoes from the garden, so we plant them. A garden of lettuce, carrots, spinach, green peas, green beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes.....there is nothing that tastes so good as a fresh veggie from our very own garden, unless of course, our neighbor shares with us!! I think gardens of all kinds bring us renewal and peace. A kind of joy for the season, and gratitude to the Lord for all His bounties....year round. I think this renewal comes when we read good books, listen to a good sermon, or receive peace to our hearts and minds during a period of meditation, or prayer. What a wonderful experience we can have during our lives here on earth!! So much to be grateful for. So much.