The temperature reached 60 yesterday cutting short the maple sugaring season. The snow retreats before the ascending sun. The earth reappears. It’s early yet – no doubt there will be more “weather” this month – but the days pronounce spring’s imminent arrival.
The return of spring renews the promise that below the surface of an apparently frozen landscape life’s energy continues to create its abundance. There is the assurance that we will surface from our winters of disappointment or arrested expectation. We are meant to be where we are – on track to resume our growth into the fullness of who we are becoming.
For me spring’s arrival is accompanied by the music of Aaron Copeland’s Appalachian Spring and the Shaker hymn on which it is based. Stretching from Maine to Georgia the Appalachians have provided the backbone for my life’s journey. On its shoulders Peggy and I have worked and played and launched our family. Its hills have schooled us in the lessons of self-sufficiency, community and interdependence. Now in our later years we return home to its gentle slopes and their essential truths.
For your meditation today I suggest you listen to Copeland’s composition reflecting on the return of spring in your own life and the message of the Shaker hymn.
‘Tis the gift to be simple, ‘tis the gift to be free.
‘Tis the gift to come round where we ought to be.
And when we find ourselves in the place just right
‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gained
To bow and to bend we shan’t be ashamed.
To turn, turn, will be our delight
Till by turning, turning, we come round right.
How lovely Bob, the Appalachians, the backbone of your life’s journey. Thank you for the beauty you bring into the world! With love always, Anne
And thank you for the beauty of our friendship. With love…
Bob…love this stuff…you thoughts energize and calm me at the same time…a good thing for an old man like me!
Thanks for checking in with your good support, Droog. It’s been too long. Do you ever come north? Plenty of hikes to choose from in this area. We would love to see you both and have plenty of room. Best…
always heart felt, heart warming insights, your words perfectly placed to express a deeper truth, to help remind us of a rhythm of soul and Earth, all in balanced harmony, connected to each other and all.
Love your words, Chris, and the sentiments and wisdom behind them. Grateful for your sharing for all who read and for our connection.
Bob- Wonderful post today!!!! The best 25 minutes of my day was the link you shared to the beautiful music of Appalachian Spring. Thank you so much for sharing.
Chris – So pleased you made time for Appalachian Spring in your day and enjoyed it so much. Thank you for letting me know and for your positive affirmation. May the rest of your day be filled with comparable joy.