Earth Service

EARTH SERVICE: COURAGE + COOPERATION

Back when the Sun was still weak and the world was still in its pre-dawn phase, the first seed nestled deep within the Earth began to fight its way to the surface. The tiny seed could feel the warmth of the pre-dawn and wanted to push beyond its imprisonment within the Earth to see what was creating this wonderful warmth it had never felt before. The little seed began to grow large roots to stabilize itself for its journey upwards. The seed continued to slowly push its way forth, the other seeds were watching in amazement. Never before in their darkness had any other seed wanted to push upward to see where the new warmth was coming from. As the little seed emerged from the Earth, it became a small but strong stem. Then as it was no longer restricted by the soil, in the Earth, it spread its wings and grew leaves. The stem told the other seeds about this journey and growth above the soil and the other seeds were so excited about the prospect of the adventure, they decided they too wanted to grow and have new experiences. So over the next thousands of years, many other seeds found the courage and became brave, covering the world with leaves, bushes and flowers. Most importantly, creating a

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new environment for animals and insects to be born into.

Laura Bowen

"Sacred Beginnings" | Dreamtime Reading Cards

This parable came across my path in my writing process and it felt like it was divinely placed on my path for this chapter. Similar to the story of the caterpillar who must willingly enter darkness, turn into goo (nothingness) in order to fully experience a metamorphosis and emerge on the otherside with the strength and gentleness of a butterfly - the stories remind us that in order to change our reality and influence our environment, we MUST be willing to push through the darkness. The courage it took for that first seed is no different than the courage it takes a caterpillar to surrender to the unknown or the courage that will be required of you to do the inner work, Shadow work and inner child reconciliation. What is on the other side is uncertain, yes. But what if it's beautiful? And exactly what the world needed to evolve. I encourage you in this moment to stay encouraged. "What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger" may not be my favorite quote of all time but I do have to admit that there are times when the medicine is bitter. After you've gone at it alone, trust that you will not be alone forever. Whatever action is calling to you now to be brave and to show up even if you will stand out, may be the very thing that's needed so that those who ARE like you can FIND you. Use your discretion, of course, about how to move about the darkness. Know that courage leads to cooperation.