We like to measure our growth linearly. And at times this is useful. But even this linear growth is best seen in the larger context of seasonal patterns, which is cyclical by its very nature.
The assumption is that our growth takes place from A to B to C, and so on. And on the one hand it does. For instance, our height grows in a singular direction, we advance from one grade to the next, we progress from dating to engagement to marriage, and time itself consistently marches forward. It’s clear many things in life are this straightforward. But often we’re then left confused when not everything can be understood on this level.
Larger, and perhaps slower, patterns of growth are also taking place. And what can feel like we’re back at square one is in reality just another cycle through our journey of growth.
Nature herself tells us this story. Spring is a season of growth and budding of new life, but it’s eventually followed by summer, fall, and winter. And while the spring of next year looks very similar in many respects to the one before, it is a new year – building on the growth of the previous. Growth is taking place within this repeating cycle. As such, a new spring is not starting over per se, but rather continuing on. And this perspective is helpful to consider in our own lives as well.
For example, a recurring disagreement with our wife or kids, or even our own struggle with sin, might feel like we’re not gaining ground or moving forward. While there might be times in which we’re legitimately stuck, at other times this repetition is best seen as a cyclical pattern of growth – working on similar issues but now at deeper levels.
Remembering this larger pattern removes our fear and doubt that growth is not taking place just because things look the same.
Of course, consider the possibility of your growth being stalled. But consider also the possibility of being in a larger cycle of seasonal growth.
