Mint to be rooted

Emotions are powerful but can be quite fickle in that they are independent from

Intention

Luck

& Action

So what can we do

to turn feelings into actionable intentions

or rather

to utilize their power to propel you forward in your chosen direction?

Many stories tell us we need a talisman, like dumbo and the feather. When I was feeling stuck, my ritual became my feather.

A pattern of small actions meant to bring me peace and clarity and leave me open to opportunities. Sometimes I create a ritual and find myself immediately in a flow state where my focus, skill, and challenge of an activity are such that I loose time and become fully present in the moment. Other times it feels as though nothing happens but there is always power in showing up for yourself because it is important to cultivate self trust.

The feather helps in so far as it generates belief. But belief while powerful, can be baseless.

So,

casting every hope upon a feather leaves little room for

expansion of our understanding of truth

and can be isolating in a time you may need to be bolstered.

When I moved to Bend Oregon it was a long awaited leap into the unknown. I wanted this to be a lasting redirection of my life so I sought advice from a garden on how best to grow.

Ivy climbs a trellis.

Without the trellis it reaches a point of stagnation

lacking the support needed to reach new heights.

With supports though, the ivy climbs

All of this occurred in the SUMMER.

In WINTER growth looks different.

Hardly visible at all it happens beneath a cold snowy blanket. The plants turn inwards.

I recently sank into a sea of blues.

My partner's love transmitted over distance wrapping around me cozy as a blanket

I surrender to it and once I emerged the feeling wasn't gone. It wasn't as powerful though like I was only damp, No longer sinking.

With the waters known I found I had room for more colors of emotions.

A healthy plant has strong roots that thrive in dark environments and enrich the plant with the nutrients it needs. It can feel like you are in a familiar space but actually that feeling indicates a chance to sink deeper or climb. The Spark of desire to grow ignites a spiral like growth pattern.

Original art by Emma Rose

But in the awe of working with a singular plant it can be easy to forget that plants live in community.

We are all connected by LAND

Rooted wether native or transported.

We are all connected by a network of BEES

The pollinators are similar I think to our collective ideas. Buzzing from one color to the next and depositing what is most needed at a time when its most needed.

We are all connected by AIR

Our breath shapes the rhythm we live and grow by.

Some plants like mint are sturdy, square, and structured. With distinct and feirce elegence they disperse

an aura of strength when rubbed or even ripped.

Others are floppier like daisies an lialacs. Magnetic with their aroma and bright affect.

And still others create fruits!

Despite the difference in confidence and ability, we are happiest when we simply ARE.

This is a strength that comes from grounding or rooting. Once you have it, in your next spring you shall grow in astounding ways.

As you do don't forget to

Play often

Utilize Curiosity Creativity and Kindness

Defend the Sacred

Stay Brilliant

And maybe nom a mint leaf.

-Emma Rose

5/19/25