Decomposition is a vital aspect of life. The rapturous documentary Fantastic Fungi makes this abundantly clear. Amidst the array of jaw dropping beauty and insights is an important point to consider: whatever is alive must eventually decompose to create space and resources for new life. Consider that for a moment.
Our planet would be quickly overcrowded and overwhelmed by what's living if not for death and decomposition. They are both inevitable and necessary components of life!
There is a lot that's dying these days. Perhaps more than the usual ebb and flow. We humans (and the planet we are part of) seem to be in a between time; a period of decomposition. Our old ways are increasingly rotting, declining toward death, yet not fully gone. And new ways are forming, but mostly under the surface...gaining strength, but not fully emerged.
In these 'Days of the Dead' (Halloween, All Souls Day, All Saints Day), we are invited to pause and consider the realms beyond what can be seen with physical eyes. It's a good time to honor the process of decay and death in the cycle of life. During this season between flowering and hibernation, it may be supportive to consider what in our lives is ready to decompose, to become fertile soil for new growth.
Stephen and I will be holding space for such considerations this autumn at The Gladstone. If you happen to be in Bellingham, WA, please join me for a Monday evening drop-in offering called Resilient Relating. We'll create a relational environment that helps us all let go of what’s decaying and bring forth what’s new.
Explore with me through Creative Catalyst or The Gladstone Creative Community Lab, a community supported project to artfully co-create a New Earth culture.