The little slug has found a cozy resting place atop a cushion of moss in the company of a mushroom. Look closely at the tiny, tiny moss fern (click on image to enlarge). Notice the contrasting colors of the slug and the texture of the mushroom nestled against the dead branch.
This photo elicits feelings and thoughts of richness, depth, and even peace. I think of all that grows from dark decay–the necessity of darkness and decay. I think of all the times I have resisted the dark seasons of my life, and how often I have struggled against death–death of a person, a dream, a relationship, a belief, an identity. I look back over the years and see that something was taking root in that darkness and decay. Something rich and beautiful.
As I approach the half century mark, I am learning to trust the darkness and decay. I am learning to embrace it rather than recoil from it or struggle with it. I’m learning to rest in that dark place, knowing that the light always returns. I’m beginning to see the beauty there, just as I see the beauty of the slug and the mushroom.
Today, I am grateful for what is emerging from that rich place of darkness and decay, and I am reminded of a favorite quote: “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well.” Julian of Norwich
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