Photo: © Martha Brettschneider/Damselwings Photography
To listen for an echo from the depths, in our thoughts, in our reading, or in our listening to the repeated drops of blessed rain after a long drought, is to live in the deeper parallels that transform a simple surface life, into a rich flowering, unconscious, multiplicity.
~ David Whyte, Consolations II: The Solace, Nourishment, and Underlying Meaning of Everyday Words
The new year is less than two weeks old. I have learned that I need at least this long to refill my tanks after the holidays.
Having left everything on the field in December (with intention), I move as slowly and lightly as I can the first half of January. I savor the spaciousness of this recovery time, listening deeply for the “echos from the depths” that nourish, affirm, inspire, and energize me.
One of those echos came on January 1, when I noticed these cheerful snowdrops blooming just inches away from our driveway. Even after decades of winter welcomes by these very same flowering bulbs, their appearance surprises and delights me every time.
“I should photograph those resilient little blooms,” I told myself.
But it was cold. And I was trying to take care of myself by avoiding any “shoulds” that day. I went inside and curled up in front of the fire.
The next day, the tone of the snowdrops’ echo shifted from “you should photograph me” to “let me inspire you!” Feeling the pull of creative energy, I intercepted my inner saboteurs that were telling me I didn’t have time, or it would be too cold, or that these snowdrops are here every year, so why bother? Instead, I honored the spark of positive energy that inspiration generates.
Within a few minutes, I was flat on my stomach with my camera. The cold of the driveway pavement seeped through my winter coat and jeans. My fingers trembled as I adjusted the lens and settings.
Letting go of resistance with the help of a full exhale, I was able to simply observe the physical sensations and be with them. I relaxed my body. It felt fun. And I felt resilient!
Fleeting Opportunity
I’m glad I listened to the echo of the snowdrops when I had the chance. A heavy snowfall covered them shortly after our brief photo session.
I know those badass flowers are still alive under the weight of the snow pile. I’ve watched them reemerge from similar situations time and again over the years.
Snowdrops are just like the rest of us with our own weighty challenges, but without our human resistance to nature’s cycles. Snowdrops know the snow will melt, so they don’t waste energy pushing back against it. They stay grounded and conserve their energy for when external conditions shift and they can reach for the sky again.
Turning Up the Volume of Echos From the Depths
What channels do you find deliver echos from the depths that lead to a richer life experience? Wisdom reading? Journaling? Creative outlets? Engagement with nature? Please share your favorites!
And if you’d like to deepen your capacity for this particular type of listening, my upcoming 30-Day Mindfulness Meditation Challenge might be of service. I’d love to welcome you to my first morning program of the year on Monday, January 20! Learn more and register here.
