Sometimes no matter how positive our intentions are, how much we believe in ourselves, and how many action steps we take, it may feel like nothing is happening in our lives. Many of us have spent a great deal of time and energy releasing the old and are ready for the new to manifest. Yet, nothing seems to have changed on the outside. During this time, it may be challenging for many of us to keep an optimistic outlook.
Our egos may step in and try to convince us that we are not doing enough to instigate change. We may fall into the trap of separation, believing that we must take more control in order to manifest our dreams. Somewhere between intention and manifestation we may begin to lose faith and become somewhat impatient.
How can we muster up patience while waiting for our dreams to manifest? We can turn to the garden for answers.
Lesson #1: When it seems like nothing is changing, know that a time of dormancy may be necessary for growth. In some climates plants require a period of quiet inaction in order to conserve energy. Then when the conditions are favorable, they will once again grow and flourish. In the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, roses are pruned back to stick-like figures in the winter. Then one day when the gardener least expects it, the plants become vibrant with the green of new growth. Soon after buds appear and at just the right time, gorgeous roses splatter color throughout the previously barren garden. Change has occurred and the blooms are more beautiful than the gardener ever dreamed possible. The garden is full of magical surprises, just like our lives.
Lesson #2: Amazing manifestations are worth waiting for, no matter how long the wait. Gardeners who have been blessed with Gardenia plants, know the power of patience in the garden. Gardenias are exquisite little flowers that emit a heavenly fragrance like no other. They are truly one of nature’s most beautiful contributions to the planet. However, these flowers require a lot of patience and love to grow. In addition, these plants take their own sweet time producing a flower. The space of time between bud and flower can seem like forever, and nothing can speed up the growing process. No amount of cheering, positive affirmations, singing, dancing or pleading is going to encourage that little bud to open up until it is ready. Then, just when it seems like it is never going to bloom, it does. This one little flower that took oh so long to grow, has now manifested into a flower extraordinaire. The garden is a better place because of this flower. It will contribute to the greater good in ways we cannot even imagine, just like we will when it is our time.
Lesson #3: Trust in the Universe. The Universe will assist us to manifest our dreams when we are ready. Ever notice how plants in the garden seem to grow with extra vigor after a good rain? No matter how diligently we water our gardens, there appears to be some magical ingredient in rainwater that seems to promote extra luscious growth in our plants and flowers. We are not able to replicate rainwater. There are some things that we must leave up to the Universe, like rainwater and manifesting dreams. We must have faith that the Universe knows exactly what we need to grow and thrive. Just like it sends the rainwater, it will always send us what we need, at just the right time. The key is to remember it will be on Universe time, not our time. As for that magical ingredient that only the Universe can supply, perhaps it is Divine love sprinkled liberally with our faith and patience. Whatever it is, we will just have to be patient until it is revealed to us.