Take All the Time You Need

Dave may have over-planted our front yard garden. In winter, he dug up all the plants and bulbs between the three white rose bushes. He put in new trim, amended the soil, and planted (or replanted) up to 100 bulbs – ranunculus, gladiolas, calla lilies, and dahlias.

The ranunculus emerged first, confirming our hope that their growth would stagger, one flower variety after another. This week the lilies and glads are beginning to open. We have in the past had dahlias blooming into fall. 

Meanwhile, we had a backyard surprise. A few winters ago, we planted a spent amaryllis bulb in an unused pot of soil … then forgot it. Last year it sprouted a few leaves, but no flowers. Then this year, over this month, above and below its green arch of leaves we have enjoyed one gorgeous red bloom after another.

Things take their own time.

Like my kids. One went from average to above average reader over a few first grade weeks, while the other taught himself to read in preschool. At their own pace they both became strong readers.

Like life. Slow and steady wins the race, though I would often like to speed things up. I would like all the details to fall into place, neat and organized, right now thank you very much. Maybe you relate.

Ecclesiastes reminds us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…” As we come into summer, and slowly emerge from a strangely prolonged life season, it’s a good time to reflect.

Where do you invest time?
What pursuits are taking their sweet time?
How can you relax into the process?
What surprises would you love to see?

Patience, friends. Things take their own time. Take all the time you need.

To be honest, Dave may have over-planted the garden. But that just makes it easier for me to snip a whole bouquet to bring inside.

2 thoughts on “Take All the Time You Need

  1. My Life in Our Father's World – Illinois USA – I am a wife and mother with 2 adult children and a granddaughter that brings me joy every day. I am the Assistant Director of a childcare center and a jail chaplain. I consume copious amounts of coffee not because I need it to stay awake but because I love the taste. I believe that God has a unique plan for each of us; consequently, I write what God tells me to write when He tells me to write it..
    My Life in Our Father's World says:

    Love this!

    1. Siv Ricketts – SF Bay Area – Hi, I'm Siv (pronounced "See-v") Ricketts, & I'm so glad you're here. In this space & on Instagram, I write to encourage you to have hope, seek beauty, and live joyfully. I have BA’s in English and Communication from Westmont College and an MDiv from Fuller Theological Seminary. I have focused my career working in and writing for the Church as a youth director, a communication director, and a freelance writer/editor. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area with my husband, two sons, and a menagerie of pets. You can also find me on Instagram (@sivricketts).
      Milagro Mama says:

      Thanks!

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