As a child, I was fascinated by tadpoles. And I wasn’t alone.
Freely roaming the neighborhood during summer months, we kids would gather in my neighbor’s frog enclosure to search for new life. When tadpoles first appeared in the manmade pond, we peered into the murky water.
Like curious child scientists, we observed the natural evolutionary process of this ancient species.
Between neighborhood games of sheep and wolf, picking berries from the garden, and sleeping under the stars, we tracked the tadpoles’ progress. Spending quality time on our bellies became an integral part of our playtime.
We were delighted by the alchemical process when tiny legs appeared.
As small arms grew and tails shortened, we knew to check the surrounding banks to ensure gradual slopes of dirt and rocks for the froglets to make their way onto land.
Beyond observerIng, we became participants in creating an environment to support progress.
The froglets had to navigate their way out of water in order to live and breathe on land. The water, which sourced early development, became deadly if they were unable to make the transition.
This unfolding mystery trained us as naturalists and strengthened our connection to the rhythms of nature.
Just the presence of enthusiastic playmates with curious minds and a sense of wonder for a complex ecosystem resulting from millions of years of evolution.
Looking back upon my tadpole research, I recognize the valuable modeling of how to live in an ever changing world.
Complex personal, societal, and global challenges requires us, like the tadpole, to grow legs, learn to breathe through change, climb out of our comfort zone, and skillfully navigate new terrain. The combination of outer turmoil and inner evolutionary pulsing invites the potential to adapt skillfully. As adults, we rely upon learned experience, cognitive problem solving, and well honed defense mechanisms to move through adversity.
Yet, the inner curious child scientist suggests a different approach.
Letting go the mind, we might breathe deeply, drop into (onto) our belly, and reconnect with the rhythm of our essential nature. Relaxed and open, we’re free to gaze into the murky situation. Seeking subtle clues which offer a broader understanding of the potential for transformation. From this vantage point, we may recognize that we are swimming in the evolutionary stream of life.
What began millions of years ago is unfolding through us, inviting the next phase of becoming.
What was once perceived as a problem may be welcomed as a necessary phase of our own evolution. Broadening our vision, we recognize that so many others, seen and unseen, have prepared the environment for our growth and cleared the way for our move into new territory.
Welcoming support makes sense as no one travels alone on the journey of life.
Swim. Climb. Leap.
My love affair with tadpoles taught me how every phase of development has value. That it is important to look beneath the surface, engage a sense of childlike wonder, and enlist playmates to make life’s journey more enjoyable.
This story also appears in Natural Awakenings Magazine, South Jersey and Philadelphia additions.
Peace be with you and with all. No exceptions.
Researchers suggest that early childhood years are fundamental in developing positive environmental attitudes and a commitment to caring for the Earth. With time playing in parks, forests, and playgrounds, children have the opportunity to reduce stress, engage in creative play, and explore the natural world. Research has found physical and psychological benefits including increased cooperation, verbal expression, and social comfort entering play with other.
Learn the one essential skill that allows you to face any challenge with confidence, sturdiness, and inner calm.
More than a technique. It’s a game changer.
My basement is already filling with toys and gifts for the SisterHood families. This is the TWENTY THIRD year of the SisterHood Holiday Gift Drive and I realize that it now has a momentum of it’s own. We’ve served anywhere from 250 to all 450 during these years.
It’s uncomfortable feeling the darkness within the belly, leaking into the day. The waking to news that frightens, angers, and confuses you. This world gone astray.
It was a day of exquisite Fall beauty, poignant pain, and inspiring hope. We stood among 600 people gathered at a local park for the 9th annual Out of the Darkness Walk. Many groups carrying photos of lovely humans or wearing t-shirts honoring those they lost to suicide.
I pulled into a crowded Target parking lot on a windy, sunny afternoon.nI’ve been doing a bunch of errands and had plenty of direct experience with busy roadways, impatient drivers, and crowded parking lots.
The Art of Becoming 6 week Journey offers an invitation to step outside the boundaries of your life as you know it. To go on a pilgrimage to the unknown. Within a circle of sisters.
I’m at home in the redwoods of California. My whole being knows this to be true. Until 10 months ago, I was not aware that such a place existed for me.
