by Diane Monks
As an interfaith minister, I have been inspired to seek out the “universal” themes among all traditions and, at the same time, look to the broader seasons and cycles of the natural world. Nature is a master teacher and offers us endless opportunities to glean wisdom about our own lives. 
In last month’s edition of Natural Awakenings Long Island, the focus was on eco-gardens. I found it to be a wonderful source of inspiration about how to care for and honor the Earth. It reminded me of the many metaphors that exist in gardening and how important it is to apply the same principles to ourselves.
Spring cleaning is a wonderful inspiration and can help us not only in our gardens, and in our homes, but also can inspire change within. Take some time this spring season to look within and meditate on your inner world.
Till the inner earth of your soul and uncover obstacles and blocks to your happiness. Gardening of the earth requires attention and strength to excavate rocks and weeds that will hamper new growth and beauty. So too, doing honest work within ourselves requires strength and commitment as we uproot old beliefs and patterns that need to be brought to the light and transformed.
Clearing out and cleaning up your inner world can be a challenging task, but great beauty awaits. Begin to replace old negative beliefs with nurturing, positive thoughts. Water your inner world daily with acceptance and nurture new life into being. You are a part of the beauty of the natural world. Bloom where you are planted and celebrate the unique You within!
Source: Rev. Diane Monks, CH, LMSW, owner of Divine Directions Hypnosis & Spiritual Counseling Services. For more information, call 516-826-5859 or visit DianeMonks.com.
