Planting the Seeds

Growth
Artwork by Tracy May Fouts

Artist Statement:  The farmer planting the seed 
shows that the farmer cannot have hope for future growth without first 
cultivating and planting the seeds.

Having a bountiful garden begins with preparing the soil and planting seeds.  Anyone who has ever gardened knows that there is a great deal of anticipation and preparation in the process.   As winter turns to spring, the farmer gets excited and has hope for his summer crop.   There is planning as to what actual crops will be grown this year.  And there is waiting…. waiting for the weather to warm up and for the ground to be dry enough to plow.

Cultivating the soil is a time consuming process that is critical for the production of healthy plants and produce.   Watching a farmer plow his garden with the tractor is a joy to behold.  He is patient and smiles as he drives his tractor, plowing the soil, getting rid of the weeds and dead plants from the previous year.  The hope for the season shows on his face as he patiently tills the ground.  Seeing and smelling the rich black soil creates an expectation as he looks forward to an abundant garden.

After the farmer thoughtfully purchases the seeds for his garden he patiently plants each one with the dream of a plentiful crop.  Some seeds are sowed in a single row, and others are planted in hills.  The farmer knows what is best for each plant, and will add the particular nutrients and fertilizer to the soil that is needed for the specific plant. 

Timing is important to the gardener: plowing the soil when it is ready, choosing the right time to sow the seed, and watering when it is needed.  The farmer watches with expectancy as the seeds begin to sprout. He waits as the plant develops to maturity and then begins to produce fruit.  And then before long, it is time to gather the produce and enjoy!

Some years there are more barriers to the crop than others.  A heavy rain or lack of rain can damage the crop.  Insects or animals can rack havoc on the produce.  Sometimes an early frost can end the production of the harvest.   But always, the farmer relies on his hope for what he is given and is grateful what the garden produces.   The farmer and his garden can teach us many life lessons.  As the farmer carefully cultivates the soil for his garden, preparing our hearts, and opening ourselves to those around us creates healthier relationships.

The farmer must take action to create hope for his crops.