Slower Growth, Richer Soil: Finding Peace in my Second Planting

It's common for us to compare our station in life with others. I find myself comparing my life to others my same age, or people I know, wondering where I stand relative to where they are. Social media often offers us brief glimpses into the lives of others. I know, I know. We all know social media is a "highlight reel." But sometimes knowing that doesn't make it any easier when we feel like we're behind in life.

On the surface, it can be quite painful to feel like we're lacking, or behind. But I find it important to remind myself and thus remind all of you, that there is more to everyone's circumstances than what's shown on social media. We all have our own journey that has led us to where we are, and each journey has its own trials and tribulations shaping the path.

When I first got married, I had hoped we'd start growing our family soon after. But working with children in my profession, I realized my partner and I needed time and space to enjoy life as just the two of us first. That choice gave us room to enjoy hobbies and experiences we might have missed otherwise. My path looks different than I thought it would, and that isn't a bad thing. It's just my season. Slower doesn’t mean behind.

That's really what this is. It isn't just about comparison; it's about trusting your own season. Our monthly theme, The Second Planting, was chosen to remind us that different seasons bring different harvests. For some of us, this second planting will sow more successes and progress toward our goals. For others, this season might be one of rest, which is still productive, still valuable.

So this month, I want to leave you with a few things to sit with: What is this season bringing into your life? How can you meet someone else's season, whatever it looks like, with care rather than comparison? And how might that shift the way you continue on your own path?