Maggie, is an active four-year-old who is experiencing what it is like to be a tie-dye artist. She is investigating colors and patterns; but more importantly fun. Most artists feel a sense of accomplishment when they complete a work they have created. Maggie is experiencing the same as she creates her artwork, whether through drawing, painting or tie-dye. Sometimes, others who view the works of an artist have emotions they can express.
For Maggie, her experiences with tie-dye are simple. She has the opportunity to play with bright colors and finds a visual stimulation that makes her smile. As Maggie learns the process of tie-dying her shirt, chooses her patterns with confidence and begins the process squeezing the dye wherever she desires. She listens with great interest as Xavier (Volunteer from California) presents each step and gives a view via a computer on what the end result might be. Today as the class unfolds in energy of squirting dyes and wrinkling some cloth, each child exhibits their delight that they have actually created their own new shirt.
As Xavier shares the final steps of waiting for a few days to allow the colors to soak into the shirts, Maggie looks disturbed and confused. With coaxing she pushes the shirt into the bag, knowing that her work of art cannot be seen yet. She must learn patience to see the best results.
It is just the same for those here at Seeds in His Garden. We must all wait to see the development of each seed (child) being nourished as to what they will choose to become. The tapestry of all of our lives is like the process of tie-dye. We, each must choose our patterns and paths, and invite new people and experiences into our lives to receive the results we are seeking. However, it is only our honoring time and giving patience that lends for the best long-term effects of our lives.