Compost Pile

Discards in a compost pile

Many years ago while on a retreat, I took a long walk down to the river. As I was walking I came upon a compost pile that was under the branches of a large tree. The walk gave me time to reflect on some upcoming transitions ahead of me.The compost heap caught my attention because out of this mess of kitchen scraps, grass, leaves and other refuse was growing the neatest vines that had some sort of fruit on them. This compost pile has become a metaphor for times in my life when I feel like things are a mess, not knowing what will come of it all. 

Have you ever had times in your life that were messy, not easy to sort out and you didn't know how it would all turn out? We all know them, we probably all have experienced them, some heaps bigger, hotter, messier than others:  divorce, unplanned pregnancies, addictions, traumas, embarrassments...you name it!  I think I probably am in good company!!

That long walk to the river got me to thinking that life is often like that compost pile: messy, lots of different material in the mix, even getting "hot" when things get stirred up. It finally dawned on me!  When a compost heap uses various kitchen scraps, grass, leaves, etc., has enough moisture, then is turned and mixed around, the whole heap breaks down into a wonderful, usable, rich material that nourishes plants, trees, gardens and ground. It's true, to make a compost heap "work" and become usable rich soil, it needs to be turned, aerated and watered. As the compost breaks down it becomes quite warm. 

How many of us have made peace with ourselves for various "compost heaps" of our life we have been in? I think of a friend who is a terrific mother and grandmother and when asked how she got to be that way responded, "I did it completely opposite of how I was raised!"  There are those who had infractions because of drugs/alcohol and spent time in jail or prison and now are examples to others in the 12 Step Programs of AA and NA on how to stay clean and sober.These are just a few examples but each of us could add many more; these are the gifts that can come from the "compost heaps" of our lives. 

When I saw living vines coming out of that compost pile it really gave me strength and hope, looking to the future rather than staying stuck in the past. I don't remember a thing from any of the talks on that retreat but a surprising compost pile has had a life changing effect on my life! Wonder what compost piles of life you have made something of?!

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I am a spiritual director and have offices in Two Rivers and Crivitz, WI.  If you would like to make an appointment to talk about your own "compost heaps" of life in spiritual direction with me, call 920.793.3530. To subscribe to my blog see MollyLaFond.com