Day 28 - Bear Fruit

The biblical Creation story begins with nature and in emphasis on food.

In the sacred tongues of old, a harmonious echo resounds, where the word "ah-kl" intertwines the realms of nourishment and consumption. This timeless root, found abundantly in the Hebrew Bible, breathes life into over 900 verses, speaking of sustenance divine. In the Holy Quran's sacred verses, a symphony of words unfolds, as the notions of food and drink grace the pages, repeated in harmony 171 times for nourishment, 109 times for the act of eating, and 131 times for the refreshing waters that quench our souls.

These sacred texts, bound by language, are wisdom, reminding us of the sustenance which drives lives. A beautiful interplay between nourishment and our spiritual journey.

The universal law of the ancient worlds beautifully illustrates the significance of food in the story of creation. On the third day, God introduces seed-bearing plants and fruit-bearing trees, emphasizing the crucial role of nourishment in sustaining life. The establishment of seasons and festivals through the sky further underscores the cyclical nature of the natural world. Through this narrative, we discover that as humans, we are not separate from nature but intimately connected to it. We are both a part of nature and witnesses to its beauty and harmony.

I feel transformed.

Sometimes, I find myself seated on the grass, fully embracing the practice of grounding. As my body settles into the earth, a profound sense of presence envelops me. I can feel the blades of grass beneath me, the soil mingling with my toes, but there's a deeper stirring within me, something indescribable.

It's an essence, a vitality that resonates with the very core of the earth. It's a harmonious connection between nature and myself, as if the nutrients and energy in the soil were meant specifically for me. Perhaps this is the ancient sensory experience that echoes through the pages of antiquity's literature.

Reflection:

What does it mean to bear fruit?

I want to open up and share something personal with all of you. My wife and I are currently in third trimester of pregnancy, eagerly awaiting the arrival of our child. As I reflect on this journey and immerse myself in my studies, the concerns of the world seem to fade away. Instead, my thoughts gravitate towards a troubling trend in the United States.

By the year 2025, it is projected that nearly 10 million couples will face difficulties in conceiving a child. It's disheartening to see these numbers rise. In the past, women typically had their first child around the age of 21, but now, that age has shifted to around 26 or 27. It's a stark reminder of the challenges many couples face when starting a family.

In light of this, I hold my wife in the highest regard. I deeply respect and honor not only her, but all the women who carry and nurture children. They deserve the utmost admiration and respect in our society. I often remind my wife of this, saying, "You not only carry our children, my beloved, but you carry the future of our nation."

Practice:

Fruit is the beautiful outcome when a healthy plant fulfills its purpose. In a similar way, we as individuals have innate talents and abilities that we are meant to cultivate and share with the world. Today, take a moment to reflect on what you are uniquely designed to do. Write down actionable steps to organize your life and prioritize the activities that will help you fulfill your purpose and bear the fruit of your potential.