Essence lies in reciprocally nourishing processes…. Some of the images and thoughts while traveling through the Midwest farm/ranchland are still processing…
What seems to be more clear with regard to its energy field is that its essence lies in reciprocally nourishing processes (I have come to see reciprocal nourishment as a more wholistic manifestation of life – intentional ways of life, than that evoked by reciprocal maintenance – which seems to be more akin to the functional, existence side). Holding reciprocally nourishing processes in mind, respectful harmony and wisdom love emerged as that which completes the depiction of our joining in its intended way of working. Reflecting on that brought to mind a conversation I had with a third-generation Iowa farmer. A conversation that began with the diminishing efficacy of particular yield improving herbicides and pesticides – it was taking more and more for less and less return, such that in a few years they were essentially ineffective. Not unlike the experience of antibiotics in our medical processes. And now as he considered GMO technology he wondered what the long-term effect of that would be. But as our conversation continued, what really surprised me, in a shocking, sad sort of way; was his comment that it had been years since his hands had touched the soil… in a very real way, modern methods had eliminated the need or tendency to do such. He wondered how his grandfather would see all this. Clearly absent within his process was the reciprocally nourishing essence character of life’s intentional ways… regardless of which systemic element one reflected from or upon – the soil, the food produced, sustainability, his work, etc. And as I write this I can see that if love is not present in the process, neither will reciprocal nourishment be present. Perhaps that is the essence work of love… a notion worth contemplating, but seemingly accurate.
The other conversation that played through my mind was a recorded one that took place between two Ogallala Sioux elders, as they contemplated the ending of their life. Their reflections on the sacredness of the buffalo – their source of food, clothing, shelter – the gift of the Great Spirit; and that which they were intended to love and respect… and how now at the end of their life it was time to make grass – to complete the nourishing cycle of life.
