The Pleasure of Hard Work

After an emotionally draining weekend, and it was physically difficult too, this morning I headed out to the garden. I was feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of hoeing the weeds and had a generally reluctant attitude - convincing myself that I'd only do it for 15 minutes and be done. Well, as I worked in the morning sun, which wasn't too hot - I became distinctly aware of all of my senses and through the discomfort of the work, I found blessing. First, the realization that this job was fleeting, and even deeper, that this time and place in my life is fleeting. I am after all, here alive and well and able to do the work. That isn't a guarantee, as we know - but often can't live with that reality and remain stable! So, I weeded. . . the whole garden. I was alone, it was therapeutic and the soil was warm, and alive. My garden is growing, the corn is up. . . so are the beans and peppers and lots of tomatoes. Ahh.