I had heard about the resilience of certain herbs, but I witnessed this first-hand when we had a winter storm recently in West Tennessee followed by sleet, freezing rain, and frigid temperatures for several days. The potted herb garden on our deck became covered in snow and ice. I assumed that the garden would have to be replanted in the spring, but to my surprise when the warmer temperatures returned a few days later, the herbs returned as well--even stronger.
Resilient Herb Garden
I noticed their robust aroma as I snipped a few springs for the white bean soup on the stove. It didn’t seem to matter how delicate some of the herbs were, like the thyme, the herbs also collectively added an intense and pleasing piquancy to the soup.
Resilient Italian Parsley, Rosemary and Thyme
Some people are like herbs. No matter what winter darkness besets them, even when others facing similar circumstances would become bitter, these individuals seem to not only survive, but thrive. This type of resiliency encourages and inspires others. They become not only a beacon, but a sweet aroma, giving courage, hope and sustenance to those around them facing the days ahead. Dr. Donalyn Heise and Dr. Laurie MacGillvray in their article, "Fostering resilience in an intergenerational art and literacy program for homeless families: An analysis of curriculum." Noted that resilience when practiced has a cumulative effect. In other words, once again like the herbs, it can grow.
Resilience is a dynamic construct, not a fixed trait (Heise, 2013; Ibeagha, Balogun, & Adejuwon, 2004; Rutter, 2012). It is not something one is born with, but something that can be developed over time. It involves repeated thoughts and actions that deepen the ability to adapt to life-threatening events. Resilience is cumulative; repeated successful adaptation despite exposure to risks contributes to positive outcomes in the future.
Heise, D., & MacGillivray, L. (2013). Fostering Resilience in an Intergenerational Art and Literacy Program for Homeless Families: An Analysis of Curriculum. 2013 VSA Intersections: Arts and Special Education, 103.
Let us continue to practice kindness and gratefulness in the unpredictable days ahead and perhaps in “thyme” we too will grow more resilient and peace will multiply. Soup, anyone?
Finally.. whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. – Philippians 4:8 ESV