Life and Growth occur in many different ways. Sometimes they occur by adding something to the current conditions, and at other times, they are triggered by Subtracting something. During the Spring Season, it is easy to understand the power of Subtractive Growth, as Nature uses this important process in the germination of Her seeds. Simply put, when a Mother Plant drops her seeds, they are covered with something called an Enzyme Inhibitor. It is a molecule that prevents the seeds from immediately germinating. It allows the seeds to remain dormant until the external conditions are ripe for sprouting. Then, through “Subtraction,” the Enzyme Inhibitors are washed away and a new Season of Life begins!
Reflecting on the idea that Plant Life is fundamental to Life on Planet Earth, and that Subtractive Growth is fundamental to the germination of Plant Life, then could the concept of Subtraction be fundamental to the development of my own Life? Thus this led me to ask the following questions:
- Is there any aspect of my own Spiritual, Emotional, Physical, or Intellectual Growth that could be enhanced by removing something? If so, what?
- Could thoughts based on fear, anger, and judgment be like Enzyme Inhibitors, and could their removal possibly trigger more joy, respect, and gratitude?
- Is there anything that I might have too much of in my Life? And if so, could “Less is More” be a path to greater fulfillment?
- And finally, could the Sacrament of Baptism be an important example of Subtractive Growth in our Spiritual Lives?
After pondering all of the above, I am once again brought back to the importance of Gratitude; Gratitude for the Spring Rains and all of the New Life that they have triggered, and also Gratitude for understanding more about the concept of Subtractive Growth!