Friday, February 28, 2014

Follow the Sun

Today is Friday, February 28, 2014. 

Follow, follow the sun
And which way the wind blows
When this day is done.
Breathe, breathe in the air.
Set your intentions.
Dream with care.
Tomorrow is a new day for everyone,
Brand new moon, brand new sun.
So follow, follow the sun,
The direction of the bird,
The direction of love.
Breathe, breathe in the air,
Cherish this moment,
Cherish this breath.
Tomorrow is a new day for everyone,
Brand new moon, brand new sun.
When you feel life coming down on you,
Like a heavy weight.
When you feel this crazy society,
Adding to the strain.
Take a stroll to the nearest waters edge
Remember your place.
Many moons have risen and fallen long, long before you came.
So which way is the wind blowin',
And what does your heart say?
So follow, follow the sun,
And which way the wind blows
When this day is done...

"Follow the Sun," by Xavier Rudd
© Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

The explanation for why sunflowers always seem to be facing east in the morning and west at sunset is surprisingly prosaic and uninspiring.  It has something to do with the fact that the narrowest part of the stem is the part that is actually growing and experiencing cell expansion, and that the cells grow and expand on one side of the stem, then the other side.  This causes the plant to be lopsided, so it faces one way and then the other.  It's true, though, that plants are sensitive to light and that they have a kind of internal clock, just as humans do.

The sun has long been recognized as a supporter of life on earth.  It brings warmth and light.  It provides energy.  It invigorates and energizes all living things.  In the song lyrics above, we are counseled to follow the sun, to follow life, light, energy. 

We are also advised to know which way the wind is blowing.  In other words, we are to be aware of our surroundings, aware of what is happening around us.  

We are told to breathe in the air and cherish each breath.  To me, that means to stay in the present moment.  

That sounds to me like a great recipe for growth. :-)

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