I’m amazed by mulch. This layer of organic material I spread as a covering in my garden is so simple yet extremely beneficial to its overall health and well being.
In our “feast or famine” rainfall, mulch slows the flow of torrential rains allowing for soaking while retaining water when little is present. Mulch moderates soil temperature keeping soil cool in the heat of summer and warm in the cold of winter. A thick layer of mulch prevents weeds and other unwanted plants from invading the garden. Finally, mulch is not wasted. This year’s mulch becomes next year’s compost adding rich organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.
As I consider the amazing benefits of mulch for my landscape, I wonder what mulch I have for my life-scape. What collects joy and provides comfort in dry seasons, moderates extremes of emotion, prevents weeds of sin and distraction, and slowly nourishes my emotional and spiritual well-being? In what ways do my friends, family, community and other relationships provide mulch for my life-scape? In what ways do my spiritual practices do the same?
I think St. Paul was well mulched as he described his ability to “be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need (Phil 4:11-12)”
What provides mulch for your life-scape?