In her book, Illuminata, Marianne Williamson writes, "The purpose of daily prayer is the
cultivation of a sense of the sacred … Prayer enables us to transform the world, because it transforms
us."For me, gardening is an invitation to prayer. When doing fall clean up, I am reminded of the
beauty, color and peace around me. I begin my meditation by saying a simple "Thank You" for a
lovely home and yard. I am in awe of the stewardship that I have been loaned. My surroundings are sacred and
the hallow ground upon which I take much delight and comfort.While mowing the lawn, weeding the flowers, or
transplanting the perennials, I lose time. Some people call this phenomenon being "In the Flow."
Athletes use the term "In the Zone" to describe their experience of participating in their love of
sports. I feel the same passion when decorating my home, turning a piece of cloth into wearable art, baking
a pie or when speaking in front of an audience.I wonder what it is internally that guides us through our
leisure and play. For example, my most productive thoughts surface while I am taking time out enjoying a
favorite hobby or project. This flow experience has given me new meaning for "wasting time" or
"piddling away" the hours on my days off.Creativity can be a way to heal our pain, work out our
frustrations, or help us focus in ways that bring meaning and clarity to our lives. It is our job to explore
those callings and gifts through internal dialogues and outward expressions. If we can still ourselves and
stop listening to all the noise around us, we often gain insight, inspiration and motivation for future
endeavors.As I put the yard away for another winter, I remember how the seasons serve as metaphors for our
lives. The earth speaks to me with ancient lessons of wisdom that are timeless Truths. Moreover, once again,
I am reassured about my Master Gardener’s grace and eternal love.Norma DavenportBowling Green