Earth Air Fire Water

I am in New Mexico, on a retreat whose theme is "Thriving or surviving?" I am in a beautiful place, surrounded by mountains, evergreens and cactus, rocks and lots of birds. Ravens are raising their young in a nest outside the front door of this palace. I meant place but it is a palace. Perched high up with views that allow me to see the clouds coming up on us. It is a sanctuary, set up to honor and work in harmony with the elements. Precious rainwater is collected and stored in underground tanks. An extensive gray water system and an outhouse for guests conserve more water. The buildings are designed to make the most of the sun's heat and light and various small solar-powered outdoor lights waste no energy. The earth is cultivated with love and food is grown abundantly in a large outdoor garden, a green house and a modest orchard. The air is crisp and clean and the wind blows all the seeds and stuff around so more stuff can grow and baby birds can learn to fly! It is no accident that everything in this place is thriving. It is thoughtfully designed to make the most of the land and what it has to offer. The plants are cultivated with love by very experienced hands and the buildings are kept up with diligence. I am going home today and my heart is bursting with anticipation and the intention to take care of my own garden, and the property that I have the honor of living on. I must admit I have let the garden go a little over the last month or so and it is now in survival mode. The main lesson of the retreat that I took home was "Your garden is a reflection of you!" and it is so true. When the garden is just surviving, chances are that is my mode too. But when it's thriving, look out!