Finding Purchase
Reflections on the indomitable spirit of life

Beneath the rock, a seedling finds a way to split. What glory this rise!
Rising in glory seedling finds a way to split a rock from beneath!
In this haiku pair, I continue my “reflection” series with the lessons found in nature’s resiliency and determination to grow despite any seeming obstacles. Each haiku poem is a reflection of itself that also provides a reflection into our lives. The reflection allows the emphasis to shift, bringing to the foreground the marvel of the outcome and the process respectively.
I have always been fascinated by the way in which life will find purchase even in harsh and inhospitable environments. I delight in seeing plants growing out of stone and sidewalks. It makes me think that anything is possible. This observation is also a reflection of what I see in my clinical practice. People have a way of not only surviving but thriving despite trauma (sometimes referred to as post-traumatic growth). The human spirit is part of Nature’s spirit and will not be bowed when given even the smallest opportunity to find the light. These observations inspire me to keep going even when I come face to face with the hard surfaces of life.

Previous poetic reflections:
Look for an article in which I discuss post-traumatic growth in the next few days.
