Weekly Photo Challenge: Growth, II

Attention is like sunlight and water
for a plant.  What we pay
attention to will grow.

~Thich Nhat Hanh~

Nature herself does not distinguish
between what seeds it receives.
It grows whatever seed is planted;
this is the way life works.
Be mindful of the seeds you plant
today, as they will become
the crop your harvest.

~Mary Morrissey~

If we’re growing, we’re always going
to be out of our comfort zone.

~John C. Maxwell~

Growth means change and change
involves risk, stepping from
the known to the unknown.

~Author Unknown~

It is our confidence in our bodies, minds
and spirits that allow us to keep looking
for new adventures, new directions to
grow in, and new lessons to learn -
which is what life is all about.

~Oprah Winfrey~

Even though I now have the new Photo Challenge theme in my inbox, I wanted to end the week with another post showcasing ‘Growth’.  I planned to create one sooner, but it was a busy week with little time to work on my blog.  I did snap some photos when we were out and about in Santa Fe, and the last two from this morning’s walk because I wanted Seattle’s flora displayed along with Santa Monica and Santa Fe.  I feel fortunate to have enjoyed the beauty of each place in the last week. 

Some thoughts on growth:

Our lives are constantly changing, whether we like it or not, and it’s our option to grow as the world around us changes, or dig in our heels and resist, remaining stagnant.

Just as when we were children, growth  comes in spurts throughout our lives.  There are times when we take on big challenges and our lives transform in major ways.  These are the times when we step the furthest out of our comfort zones, and we must surrender our security in some way, but the rewards can be the most fulfilling.

There is value in slow and steady growth in any area of our lives.  Sometimes taking baby steps is the way to go.

Learning is growing.  Stay curious and learn something new each day.

There’s a lot of opportunity for personal growth during challenging times.

Spiritual growth often happens in stillness – no outward movement needed.

We need four hugs a day for survival.
We need eight hugs a day for maintenance.
We need twelve hugs a day for growth.

~Virginia Satir~

Sending hugs to you all.