Growing Pains

Growing pains. This is one of those sayings that we use, but seldom think about what it actually means. Most often used in the context of growing physically, the weight of this sentiment gets overlooked. However, as human beings, we not only grow physically, but we grow spiritually, mentally, emotionally, etc. How have you experienced growing pains in other areas of your life? How do you approach the areas in your life where you are growing?

Let’s take a flower for example. There is a process of growth that the seed has to go through in order to reach its true form as a flower. 

The Planting

The first step in starting the process of growing a plant is to put it underneath the dirt. The seed has to be in an environment that is conducive of its growth. This is how the process begins. This “burial” of the seed is necessary to get to its final form.  

Is your environment allowing you to grow or do you need to change your environment? In what ways in your life do you feel like you’ve been buried? Are there times where you feel like it is just too dark and you cannot find your way?

Well, maybe, just possibly, this is the start of your growth journey.

The Rooting

The next step is triggered by the seed receiving the water that it needs. Once the seed is watered, it takes root to access the water that is underground. 

When you find yourself feeling buried or in a dark place, it is necessary to make sure you are being watered. What people/places/things are pouring into you? Are you in places where you are void of a water source?

The Sprouting

Once the seed receives the water that it needs, it begins to sprout from underneath the ground. Once it breaks through the surface of the ground, the plant grows from the source of sunlight by receiving energy through its leaves. The plant sustains it’s growth by staying connected to its power source, the sun.

What is your power source? What empowers you to do what you do? What keeps you going everyday and are you connected to it?

I write this to encourage all of you who may be feeling growing pains right now. I write this to tell you to get in the right environment and to make sure you are being watered and that you have enough sunlight! Growing pains are all a part of the process. Embrace them.